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Learn more about the Centre for Doctoral Training in Accelerated Medicines Design and Development
The Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT) is a partnership between the University College London (UCL) and University of Nottingham.
Our CDT provides doctoral level education in a multidisciplinary environment uniting university, industry researchers and clinical partners. We train student cohorts using advanced experimental and computational methods to optimise and predict medicines design, development, translation and performance.
The CDT provides world-leading doctoral training to future leaders from all backgrounds in pharmaceuticals and medical technology. Students engage in innovation and entrepreneurship activities, conferences, team working, problem solving, and outreach, with industry and clinical involvement. Our curriculum foregrounds personal researcher development through provision of transferable skills and incorporation of equity principles within training and research. It includes training projects in academic and industry sites and “miniMD” placement at clinical partner sites.
Please note that applications are to join the CDT, rather than for a specific PhD research project. The PhD project topics for 2025 students will be generated during an event within the first six months of the programme, in early 2026. This will be a collaborative process involving students, academics, and our industry and clinical partners.
Why study with us?
Fully funded PhD studentships at leading UK universities
Incorporation of equity principles in all activities, including recruitment, training, supervision and mentoring
Diverse PhD projects across various disciplines
Network with alumni in industry and academia
Open innovation environment with academia and industry partners
What do we offer?
Up to 5 fully funded studentships at the University of Nottingham (UoN)
Up to 8 fully funded studentships at University College London (UCL)
All starting in October 2025
Competitive tax-free stipends: £19,975 (plus £3,000 London weighting for UCL).
Generous funding support for research expenses, training, and travel.
Bespoke student mentoring
Provision of safe spaces with a focus on the needs of Black and other minoritised backgrounds.
Opportunities for industry experience and networking
Full and part-time positions
Additional financial support for students with disabilities, and paid parental leave
Entry and funding requirements
Candidates should have, or expect to obtain, a first or upper-second class degree (master, bachelor or international equivalent) in pharmacy, chemistry, engineering, physics, biology, mathematics or related sciences.
We particularly encourage applications from candidates with Black and other minoritised backgrounds. If they meet the eligibility criteria and qualify for UK fee status, these applicants are guaranteed an interview.
International applicants are welcome. Subject to availability, funding for international scholars to receive the same benefits as UK residents can be provided for a limited number of positions. For fee status, consult the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA).
How to apply
To apply, please complete the online application form.
For a full summary of our Doctoral Training Programme please visit the official CDT in Accelerated Medicines Design and Development website.
If you have any enquiries about the CDT programme, please contact:
CDT Lead: Prof Gareth Williams
E-mail: g.williams@ucl.ac.uk
CDT Manager: Ms Sarah Marks
E-mail: sop.amdd-cdt@ucl.ac.uk