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British Heart Foundation PhD Programme 2014

The University of Manchester -Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences

The 4-Year British Heart Foundation PhD programme at the University of Manchester signals a new and flexible approach to cardiovascular research training. We have one fully-funded place available for our September 2014 intake.
Through a combination of intensive workshops, tutorials and independent research our students develop the necessary skills-sets to become future research leaders in the cardiovascular sciences. Training is structured to encourage students to take novel, interdisciplinary approaches to address key cardiovascular questions.
Our 4-Year BHF PhD programme has two key components; a ‘Foundation’ Masters of Research (MRes) year, comprising both taught and research modules and a 3 year PhD project (Years 2-4). The initial year provides the opportunity to develop skills in a wide range of experimental techniques/methods and gain an appreciation of the major challenges of cardiovascular research.
The knowledge, experience and skills obtained in the MRes year provide an ideal platform for students to perform cutting-edge research during their eventual PhD projects. It also allows students to make well informed choices for their final projects, with the opportunity to work alongside eminent academics across many multidisciplinary settings. Our existing BHF PhD students are active members of the Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, participating in seminars and external conferences. Training is also provided in transferable scientific skills, such as commercialisation of research, public engagement, effective publications and ethics.
Based in the Core Technology Facility (CTF), our students are immersed in a thriving environment consisting of flexi-lab space, state of the art equipment, conferencing facilities and dedicated write-up areas. The CTF forms part of the Manchester ‘Bioscience Corridor’, integrating biomedical, physical, computational and engineering researchers in order to spark the next generation of bioscience leaders.
Successful applicants for our 4-Year studentships receive full support for their tuition fees, all research expenses and an annual minimum tax-free stipend at BHF rates (currently £19,339).
Expressions of interest are invited from candidates wishing to be considered for entry onto our 2014 PhD intake. Applicants should hold (or expect to obtain) a minimum upper-second class degree or equivalent in an associated biomedical/biological sciences subject. All studentships will commence in September 2014. Candidates must be UK/EU nationals due to the nature of the funding.
Interested candidates should submit the following:
  • CV
  • Academic degree transcripts
  • Covering statement (not exceeding 1, 000 words) outlining your motivation in applying for the 4-year BHF programme, research interests, career ambitions, suitability and experience to date.
  • Contact details for two academic or professional referees.
Applications should be sent to Caroline Price: caroline.a.price@manchester.ac.uk  
All enquiries should be emailed to the 4-Year BHF PhD Director, Dr Clare Austin:clare.austin@manchester.ac.uk
Closing date for applications: 21 March 2014
Interviews held: Early April 2014
Shortlisted applicants will be contacted by late March. If you do not receive a response by this time please assume that your application has been unsuccessful.
Further details on our BHF PhD programme, including student videos, can be accessed from our website:
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