Masters by Research/PhD Microbiology

About the course

A University of Hertfordshire research degree is an internationally recognised degree signifying high levels of achievement in research. It develops extensive subject expertise and independent research skills which are honed over an extended period, depending on the level of the award. You would undertake a substantial, original research project for the duration of the degree, under the supervision and guidance of two or more academic members of staff. Your supervisory team provides guidance both in the selection of a research topic and in the conduct of the research. You are also supported by attendance at postgraduate seminar series to develop subject specific knowledge and research skills relevant to your field of research. The degree is assessed solely on the basis of the final research output, in the form of a substantial written thesis which must be "defended" in a viva. During the course of the degree, you would be given opportunities to present your work at major conferences and in refereed research publications.

This programme can be followed on a full or part-time basis. A full-time PhD programme is expected to take 3-4 years and a part-time PhD programme will take 6 - 8 years. This programme does not contain a placement year.

How to Apply

We recommend that you discuss your proposed research with the appropriate member of the academic staff in the Life & Medical Science before submitting your application. Please name this staff member when submitting your application.

For any applications for projects that are not listed here, please include an outline research proposal.

For informal enquiries, please contact the relevant Departmental Research Tutor:

• Clinical, Pharmaceutical and Biological Sciences: Dr Yongju Huang (y.huang8@herts.ac.uk)
• Psychology, Sport and Geography: Dr Amanda Ludlow (a.ludlow@herts.ac.uk)
• Postgraduate medicine: Prof Ornella Corazza (o.corazza@herts.ac.uk)

Download an application form

Application forms should be returned to Mrs Liz Day, Research Degrees Administrator by email at doctoralcollegeadmissions@herts.ac.uk

Find out further information on research project areas

Teaching methods

Research degrees are not taught programmes, however, programmes of supporting studies are a key element.

The Pharmacy section conducts high quality research in the areas of dermal, transdermal, buccal and airway drug delivery, patient safety, medicines management, drug mis-use and psycho-pharmacology. The School of Life & Medical Sciences has a large number of postgraduate students undertaking full-time research in these disciplines leading to the awards of MSc by Research, MPhil or PhD. There are also a number of industry-based graduates registered for research degrees on a full-time or part-time basis. Research in the discipline areas is headed by internationally recognised staff with positions on many national and international associations and professional bodies.

What’s next for my career?

• An internationally recognised research qualification.
• Developing advanced subject expertise at postgraduate level.
• Develop research skills through practice and extensive research experience.
• Employers are looking for high calibre graduates with advanced skills who can demonstrate independence through research.

Course fees

• Research degree fees for UK and EU students
• Research degree fees for international students