PhD in Cancer Medicine PhD/MPhil/MD

Tuition is £32,200 full-time / £16,100 part-time per year (International).

Overview

Undertake research that offers the opportunity to make significant impact on the detection and treatment of cancer with our Cancer Medicine programme. You’ll explore laboratory-based or clinical trial-based approaches to the study of cancer and examine therapeutic strategies that impact upon medicine and ultimately improve patient outcomes.

Introduction

The Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative Biology (ISMIB) was established to integrate cutting-edge and clinical research across the Faculty of Health and Life Sciences. Programmes of work across ISMIB are varied and are led by world experts in their fields.

A broad range of research interests provides for world-class research in cancer medicine, supported by world-class clinical research into several major types of cancer. Cancer medicine research is aimed at developing discoveries that can ultimately be translated into patient benefits. You will undertake fundamental research into the mechanisms leading to cancer development and progression, with the aim of understanding the processes that lead to cancer development, and which constitute potential therapeutic targets. This is achieved by translational research, taking advantage of new and on-going clinical trials in cancer. These combine existing therapies with novel approaches, using predictive and prognostic biomarkers.

Scientific research is performed in an environment with a wealth of clinical expertise and research. This ensures that scientific research is always provided by leading clinical teams, informed by an awareness of detailed clinical issues, and performed with insights of relevance to patients.

The University of Liverpool, founded in 1882 and located in the vibrant city of Liverpool, is a research-intensive institution with a global student body of around 32,000, including approximately 17,700 international students. The university offers a wide range of programs—over 200—across sciences, engineering, humanities, health and business, combining rigorous academics with practical industry links. Its historic campus and city connections provide a lively cultural setting and strong transport links across the UK and beyond.

Research and employability are central to the Liverpool experience, with interdisciplinary projects, industry partnerships and extensive placement opportunities embedded in many degrees. Students benefit from modern facilities, dedicated career services and a supportive academic community that helps translate theory into professional practice. The university's global networks also create exchange and collaboration pathways for study abroad and joint research.

International students receive comprehensive support from pre-arrival guidance to on-campus services, including English language support, visa advice and student societies that foster social integration. Liverpool’s affordable living costs relative to other UK cities, combined with its cultural life and sporting traditions, make it attractive to students seeking a balanced academic and social experience. The University of Liverpool is well-suited to ambitious students aiming for impactful research, strong career outcomes and a cosmopolitan student life.