DPhil in Pharmacology

University of Oxford

About the course

The DPhil in Pharmacology offers a wide range of cutting-edge research topics within a multi-disciplinary and world-renowned department (ranked number 1 by subject since 2019 in the QS World Ranking), from calcium signalling to cardiovascular pharmacology, neuropharmacology and medicinal chemistry.

In the first instance, applicants are strongly advised to visit the department's website to identify potential supervisors based on their research area of interest. Selecting the correct research area and discussing possible projects is a hugely important first step, so it is recommended that you contact potential supervisors directly to discuss possibilities before you apply online for a place on the course.

This programme aims to train students in the general areas of.

• Cardiovascular Pharmacology
• Medicinal Chemistry
• Neuropharmacology
• Signalling

Within each areas cutting-edge laboratory research techniques will be used including biophysics of ion channels, electrophysiology, microscopy, molecular biology, systems biology to a broad range of sub-disciplines including cell biology, calcium channels and signalling, chemical tools, medicinal chemistry, drug discovery, vascular pharmacology, circadian rhythms, rare diseases, lysosomal and sphingolipid disorders, neuronal circuits, synaptic plasticity and pharmacology, neuropsychopharmacology and molecular biology.

Assessment

At the end of your time with the department you will produce a doctoral thesis that represents a significant advance in the field.

You will begin your course as a probationary research student (PRS) and near the end of the first year you will write a report to transfer to DPhil (PhD) status. To transfer your status, you must make a formal application which will include a research report and statement of future research plans. You will also take an independent assessment by two assessors. Continuation in the programme is subject to passing the Transfer of Status exam.

After eight terms of study you will need to apply formally to confirm your DPhil status. You will be required to present your on-going work in a formal context where it will be reviewed by two independent assessors. Continuation in the programme is subject to successfully completing the Confirmation of Status.

Graduate destinations

According to the department's last survey, 100% of DPhil students have either gone on to continue their education or are in employment. Departmental academics follow their alumni with interest.

Examples of careers and employers on completion of the DPhil. postdoctoral research, the pharmaceutical industry, the Wellcome Trust, the biotechnology industry, graduate medical study, investment banking and Google UK.