LSI PhD Programme in Complex Living Systems

Modern scientific innovation involves the integration of diverse disciplines and the bridging of pure and application-oriented research. At the LSI we are training a new generation of scientists who are equipped to think and experiment beyond traditional boundaries using cutting-edge technologies and approaches.

You can apply to our PhD Programme via three routes: (i) direct application for an LSI-funded PhD studentship (covers fees, stipend, and training budget); (ii) application for a studentship funded by another source (e.g., UKRI, China Scholarship Council, national agencies) with an LSI supervisor; (iii) self-funding with an LSI supervisor.

Hear from our students

Courtney Lendon, 2nd Year PhD Student

The LSI embodies everything I sought from not only a PhD, but a welcoming and ambitious work environment. I have been amazed by the sheer amount of talent the LSI hosts and the openness to collaborate. My project has already been fantastically enhanced by working within various groups. Additionally, the comradery and mutual respect within the community makes me feel like less of a student and more as a colleague. As an institute that is consistently pushing scientific boundaries, fostering creativity and collaboration, it is a fantastic place to expand your scientific horizons

Anuj Tiwari, Second Year PhD Student

Apart from world class research facilities, the breadth of expertise available in the LSI in terms of research and diversity is unlike anything I have experienced. It is not uncommon to find people chatting about science over a doughnut break or during lunch. PhDs can be a lonely affair but being around like-minded people and meeting them regularly during LSI social events helps me cope with any work-related stress. The midweek football with colleagues is a nice change of pace from what can otherwise become a monotonous routine. As an international student, moving to a new country can be challenging but the social environment of the LSI felt like home straightway.

Callum Jones. Final Year PhD Student

The LSI really is an interdisciplinary department. As a physicist, it has been a great opportunity to learn a little about Biology, just by being surrounded by others’ research. The weekly LSI seminars cover a really broad range of subjects, making it easy to get introduced to new ideas. There are also some great social events; this year we’ve been kayaking, organised a student conference, and been on an away-day to Torquay. I’d definitely recommend it as a place to do your PhD.

Kalani Perera

My experience at the University of Exeter, Living Systems Institute has been nothing short of amazing; everyone is very heart-warming and welcoming here. Supervisors provide excellent guidance in research in order to build our skills. I particularly enjoy being a researcher at LSI because I constantly learn from professors and my colleagues. Also, we have an incredible opportunity in our building because the biology, physics, mathematics and physiochemical people are housed in the interconnected building where collaboration is producing amazing synergies.

What we offer

All students are enrolled in the integrated LSI programme regardless of primary discipline or funding source. You will benefit from the broad range of opportunities and activities offered by the programme, including:

Leading-edge research technologies and approaches, from quantum biology to brain function
State-of-the-art laboratories and facilities in the recently built LSI
Opportunity to formulate and modify your own project
Cohort learning in interdisciplinary training modules and workshops
Supervisors from different disciplines
Advisory thesis committee to support you throughout the PhD
Diverse and inclusive community of over 60 PhD students
Peer-to-peer PhD student presentation and discussion sessions
Future career preparation

Exeter is one of the fastest growing cities in the UK. It is situated in the South West of England which offers unmatched sports and leisure opportunities through several national parks and some of the best beaches in Europe.

Who we’re looking for

We aim to recruit the best and most imaginative students from across the range of disciplines represented in LSI – Physics, Mathematics, Computational Science, Engineering, Biology and Medicine.

You will be motivated by scientific curiosity and be able and willing to “think outside of the box”. You should have a first or upper-second-class degree (or equivalent). Masters training can be an advantage but is not essential. However, you should have sufficient experience to demonstrate your capability for research work and aptitude for critical thinking.

Applications

Applications for LSI-funded PhD studentships will re-open in autumn 2023. For other studentships deadlines see details on individual research group pages.

Other funded studentships deadlines vary. Please see the details and links on the group pages.

For self-funded applicants, please contact directly your preferred supervisor and also the LSI Director of Postgraduate Research, Professor Steve West (s.west@exeter.ac.uk.)

In your message, please state your motivation for carrying out Ph.D. research, why you are applying to our interdisciplinary programme, why you have chosen your selected supervisor/project, and your source of funding for fees, living costs and research training. Self-funded applicants will be subject to an equivalent selection process as applicants for funded positions.

If you have any inquiries, please contact:

Director of Postgraduate Research (LSI), Steven West: s.west@exeter.ac.uk

PhD Scholarship programme for Black British Researchers

The new University of Exeter PhD Scholarship programme for Black British Researchers is now open for applications for a September 2023 start. General information about the programme can be found here. The Faculty of Health and Life Sciences has one dedicated studentship to award via this programme and application information can be found here.

The closing date for submission of applications is midnight (UK time) on Wednesday 26th April 2023.

There will be a webinar for applicants on 30th March 2023 to answer any questions about the scholarships scheme or the application process, and to support applicants in how complete their application (such as how to prepare their academic CV or research proposal). Applicants can register their interest in attending the webinar here.