Introduction to student life at the LMS

Have you just completed your first degree? Or perhaps a Masters? Congratulations on your achievements! Are you considering a PhD? If so – consider an LMS PhD.

How to Apply

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Introduction to our PhD programmes

General enquiries

For all general enquiries about our PhD training programmes please contact the Postgraduate Coordinator on

The LMS offers two tailored PhD programmes – a core PhD programme and a transdisciplinary PhD programme, designed to inspire, challenge and nurture the next generation of research leaders. Our students work at the forefront of science in our state-of-the-art West London facility, gaining hands-on experience with cutting-edge technologies and benefiting from close mentorship by internationally recognised Group Heads.

Our PhD students are enrolled through Imperial College London’s Faculty of Medicine, giving them access to the Graduate School’s extensive training resources, student benefits, and a dynamic postgraduate community. Join us to grow as a scientist, collaborate across disciplines and make discoveries that can transform lives.

We’re committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse research environment where all PhD students feel valued and supported. To find out more visit our dedicated equality, diversity and inclusion page.

Core PhD programme

Our core PhD programme offers an exceptional training environment for talented and ambitious graduate students who are eager to explore bold, innovative approaches to biomedical research and push the boundaries of scientific discovery. Designed to nurture future scientific leaders, the programme encourages creative thinking, critical analysis, and empowers students to tackle complex biological challenges. With access to world-class facilities, expert mentorship, and a vibrant, collaborative research community, this programme provides the perfect environment for students aspiring to make transformative contributions to science and medicine. In addition, all students benefit from a wide range of professional development opportunities, reflecting our strong commitment to the personal development of our students.

Transdisciplinary PhD programme

Our transdisciplinary PhD programme offers an outstanding training environment that closely mirrors our core programme but places a stronger emphasis on transdisciplinary research. Launched in 2023, this initiative brings together scientists from the LMS, leading global academic institutions, and industry to tackle global and societal challenges, as well as core biological problems with direct relevance to human health. This programme aims to attract students from diverse and non-traditional academic backgrounds, including mathematics, physical sciences and engineering. The programme’s transdisciplinary nature fosters an environment where ideas flow freely, collaborations thrive, and pioneering research has the potential to achieve high-impact research. By integrating knowledge across fields, the programme inspires students to innovate and develop holistic solutions to key biological and clinical challenges helping to advance healthcare and improve lives.

What we offer

Our PhD programmes offer students a generous, tax-free stipend of £26,500 per year, for four years and cover the cost of student tuition fees as well as necessary research consumables. Visa costs are covered for overseas students.

This October we are offering:

Seven fully funded studentships for our core PhD programme.

Four fully funded studentships for our transdisciplinary PhD programme.

How to apply

Recruitment for our 2026 PhD programmes is now open. For information about our 2026 PhD programme, visit our PhD recruitment page. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our Postgraduate Coordinator at .

RECRUITMENT PAGE

What to expect as an LMS PhD Student

Students are supported by a dedicated team of two co-supervisors, two assessors and a mentor. Co-supervisors offer expert guidance and teaching throughout the PhD, ensuring strong academic development. Assessors provide structured support through regular progress reviews and tailored career and professional development advice, while mentors offer continuous wellbeing support and guidance, fostering a positive, nurturing environment for both personal and academic growth.

Click through the carousel below to find out more about what it’s like to be an LMS PhD student.

“Throughout my PhD, the core facilities at the LMS have provided me with the opportunity to learn a wide range of techniques in a highly supportive environment. The collaborative and open culture here means that whenever I’ve wanted to explore a specific area or technique, there has always been someone with relevant experience willing to help.”

Jane Bennett, PhD student, Cellular Stress group

Programme induction

Our PhD students participate in a three-week induction course during the first month of their programme. The induction includes lectures, practical demonstrations, facility tours, as well as sessions on science and society, good scientific practice and science communication.

Developing transferable skills

As registered students of Imperial College London, our PhD students have access to a wide range of courses including training in Intellectual Property, Python and R, Career Progression and many more. In addition, the LMS offers its own training initiatives, including a Computational Biology course featuring hands-on workshops that teach students how to use key software and refine their analytical skills and a Presentation Skills workshop to help students communicate their research effectively to diverse audiences.

Representation

Our PhD Student Committee fosters a supportive research environment by ensuring student voices are heard by Institute leadership. Our PhD Student Committee also works closely with our postgraduate student coordinator and attends biannual feedback meetings with the Directors of Postgraduate Studies. The Committee President(s) also contribute to the Postgraduate Training Advisory Group, reviewing proposed programme changes before implementation.

Social life

The LMS has a bustling social calendar, featuring international food events, games nights, and occasional “After Hours” evenings. Our vibrant PhD Student Committee brings the student community together through a mix of academic and social events, including journal clubs, career talks, guest lectures, group dinners, trips and the annual PhD Retreat.