Our PhD/MSc in the Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research will provide you with the skills necessary to contribute to research affecting the bespoke processes that occur in our bodies, both normal and abnormal.
By applying non-targeted and targeted metabolomics approaches to the study of human diseases and ageing in large-scale studies, you can develop stratified medicine to benefit not only patients in the UK, but across the world.
You will work amongst the very best researchers to produce original and distinctive world-leading research, with the ultimate goal to translate research into treatments that transform patient care by targeting the specific needs of the individual.
Our PhD/MSc by Research program is intended for students who wish to obtain high quality research training that will enable them to conduct independent investigative research.
You can choose from a wide range of research areas within Metabolism and Systems covering:
Metabolism and metabolic disease - Cell metabolism, steroid metabolism, energy metabolism, exercise, nutrition, obesity and diabetes and their systemic consequences
Hormones and Reproduction - Fertility, the developing fetus, early miscarriage and other complications of pregnancy, maternal health, newborn health
Hormones, Immunity and Inflammation - Steroid hormone metabolism and action in antibacterial response, immunomodulation, and inflammatory diseases
Hormones, Metabolism and Cancer - Hormonal regulation of tumorigenesis, cancer metabolism, hormone-producing and hormone-dependent cancers
You will work closely with your supervisory team who will help you clarify your project and support your development. Your thesis will represent an original contribution to knowledge and demonstrate independent judgement.
Employability
The University of Birmingham is the Times and The Sunday Times University of the Year for Graduate Employment 2016. This coveted accolade places Birmingham as the UK’s number one university for securing a graduate-level job. We have a global reputation for producing sought after graduates and are:
In the College of Medical and Dental Sciences our average Graduate Employability rate is 97% since 2012. A high proportion of our postgraduate research students go onto roles such as Postdoctoral Researcher, Teaching Fellow, Research Fellow within the University and local NHS hospitals as well as moving into pharmaceutical and research and development sectors.
*Price shown is for indicative purposes, please
September 2025
University of Birmingham
Edgbaston,
Birmingham,
B15 2TT, CENTRAL ENGLAND, England
*There may be different IELTS requirements depending on your chosen course.
The university is known globally for its pioneering research - students benefit from trailblazing discoveries that impact international society.