Biotechnology - Research

Research Programmes

The School boasts a large cohort of graduate students enrolled in high quality structured M.Sc. (by research) and Ph.D. programmes that provide training in specific, state-of-the-art and generic research skills. Graduate students constitute a significant and valued presence within our School and we are dedicated to the continuing development of our Ph.D. programmes and to enhancing the graduate’s training experience.



Thematic Ph.D. programmes

The UCD Structured Ph.D. enables UCD Ph.D. students achieve the best possible experience of graduate research and training. See here for more details. SBBS offers thematic Ph.D. programmes in Biomolecular and Biomedical Science, Infection Biology and Biotechnology.



How can I find a Ph.D position in SBBS?

SBBS offers a small number of funded PhD positions. These are advertised on the 'Research Vacancies' page on the SBBS website on an annual basis in May/June for entry in the following September.



Outside of these funded positions, candidates interested in pursuing a Ph.D. programme within the School should initially make contact with a potential supervisor in a chosen research area to establish the availability of a position. See our research pages and staff profiles for more information on research areas. In such cases it may be possible to secure funding from an external agency, but any such opportunities should be discussed in advance with the prospective supervisor.

Entry Criteria

To pursue postgraduate studies in SBBS you will be expected to have a minimum of a second class honours degree in in the relevant subject area. You will also be expected to be competent in English. Applicants to research degree programmes in UCD must meet the University Minimum English Language Proficiency Requirement of a minimum of IELTS 6.5 with not less than 6 in any strand in the Academic Version or equivalent. The School may, at their discretion, consider alternative proof of English language proficiency such as a degree taken through English.

Biotechnology (F107) PhD Research 3 Years FT

Opportunities for research students



The School values its Ph.D. students and encourages involvement in the School community through School social events and School-associated student societies such as PharmTox and Micro Soc. Career advice is available to all PhD students through the UCD Career Development Centre http://www.ucd.ie/careers/, The career development centre will advise students of recruitment fairs, available job opportunities and internships as well as providing more tailored advice for the individual student.



Through our structured Ph.D. programmes you will develop research skills and transferrable skills. You will also be required to undertake 30 credit worth of modules. The choice of these will be discussed with your supervisor.



All research students will have the opportunity to demonstrate in undergraduate practical laboratory classes and will have the opportunity to participate in outreach activities through our established 'Science communication module' and our annual 'Engage Accessible Science' event.

Opportunities for research students


The School values its Ph.D. students and encourages involvement in the School community through School social events and School-associated student societies such as PharmTox and Micro Soc. Career advice is available to all PhD students through the UCD Career Development Centre http://www.ucd.ie/careers/, The career development centre will advise students of recruitment fairs, available job opportunities and internships as well as providing more tailored advice for the individual student.


Through our structured Ph.D. programmes you will develop research skills and transferrable skills. You will also be required to undertake 30 credit worth of modules. The choice of these will be discussed with your supervisor.


All research students will have the opportunity to demonstrate in undergraduate practical laboratory classes and will have the opportunity to participate in outreach activities through our established 'Science communication module' and our annual 'Engage Accessible Science' event.