Quantum Biology PhD

• Contribute to an emerging and exciting discipline, that could hold the key to new approaches in solar energy, drugs and diagnostics, and even improve our understanding of how the brain works and the conceptual foundations of quantum theory
• Carry out research using our advanced spectroscopy, ion beam proton irradiation, nanotechnology and mass spectrometry facilities within our Advanced Technology Institute (ATI), plus additional facilities at our partner institute, the National Physical Laboratory (NPL).
• Join the Leverhulme Doctoral Training Centre for Quantum Biology (QB-DTC) – the first centre of its kind in the world
• Make contacts, gain skills and get practical experience that will prepare you for a rewarding career.

Our Quantum Biology PhD gives you the opportunity to undertake an interdisciplinary research programme in a theoretical or experimental area of the discipline.

Depending on the availability of studentships, you could explore a topic such as:

• Photosynthesis
• Molecular mechanisms of mutation
• Enzymes
• Olfaction
• Nanobiotechnology
• Synthetic biology
• Spin chemistry and biology.

As a PhD student, you’ll become part of Surrey’s QB-DTC, putting you at the heart of a community of academics, postdoctoral researchers and guest scientists. In the first year, you’ll embark on a training programme of interdisciplinary seminars. These workshops are designed to ‘fill in the gaps’ in physics for biologists and in biology for students from a physical science or mathematics background.

Your final assessment will be based on the presentation of your research in a written thesis, which will be discussed in a viva examination with at least two examiners. You have the option of preparing your thesis as a monograph (one large volume in chapter form) or in publication format (including chapters written for publication), subject to the approval of your supervisors.

After your first 12 months, you’ll complete a confirmation report, which will be assessed by independent examiners. Your final assessment will be based on the presentation of your research in a written thesis, which will be discussed in a viva examination with at least two examiners. You have the option of preparing your thesis as a monograph (one large volume in chapter form) or in publication format (including chapters written for publication), subject to the approval of your supervisors.

Your professional development is supported by Surrey’s Doctoral College which provides training in essential skills through its Researcher Development Programme of workshops, mentoring and coaching. A dedicated postgraduate Careers and Employability team will help you prepare for a successful career after you complete your PhD.