The University of Birmingham is offering two fully funded Intercalating PhD Studentships (MBPhD) in Oncology as part of the Birmingham Cancer Research UK Clinical Academic Training Programme, commencing by June 2026. This prestigious programme provides early career researchers with the opportunity to train in a dynamic, multidisciplinary environment at the forefront of cancer research.

The studentships are designed for medical students who wish to intercalate a PhD into their medical training. The programme covers full PhD tuition fees, laboratory consumables (approximately £14,000 per year), a generous living stipend (£21,000 per year), and undergraduate tuition fee costs up to £45,000. While overseas students are eligible to apply, they must self-fund the difference between home and overseas tuition fees.

Applicants must have completed at least two years of the University of Birmingham MBChB or one year if on the Graduate Entry Medicine (GEM) course. Additionally, candidates should have completed or be completing an intercalating degree, or for GEM students, have completed an undergraduate degree in a relevant subject. The programme welcomes applications from those with their own project ideas, provided there is a clear oncology focus, as well as those interested in the Centre’s key research themes.

The research environment is vibrant and collaborative, with core scientific themes including Cancer Immunology, Cancer Genomics, and the Tumour Microenvironment & Metabolism. Projects may explore the regulation of anti-tumour immunity, the impact of tumour genetics and microbiota, novel immunotherapeutic strategies, DNA damage and repair in cancer predisposition, epigenetic reprogramming, and the role of the tumour microenvironment in prognosis and treatment response. The programme is closely linked with clinical infrastructure, enabling translational research and the development of novel therapeutic approaches.

To apply, candidates should send a CV, personal statement, outline of research interest and experience, names of two referees, and (optionally) project preferences to Fayeon Fyfield-Calder ([email protected]) by 2nd February 2026. For further information about example projects or to discuss potential research ideas, applicants are encouraged to contact Fayeon at the same email address.

This is an exceptional opportunity for aspiring clinical academics to gain advanced research training in oncology, supported by a comprehensive funding package and access to world-class facilities and expertise at the University of Birmingham.