PhD Applications for September 2027 Now Open


Applications for the September 2027 PhD intake are now open via our application portal. The deadline for applications is 17:00 GMT on 9 November 2026.

Application requirements

We welcome candidates with a keen interest in neuroscience combined with an undergraduate degree in a relevant field such as Neuroscience or other life sciences, Physics, Mathematics, or Computer Science. Please note that candidates offered a place on the SWC PhD programme will be required to meet UCL's standard admissions requirements (including the English language requirements for international applicants).

As part of your application, you will be asked to provide details of your academic qualifications, research experience, research interests, and supervisor preferences. You may also upload a CV and indicate whether you wish to be considered for the Joint SWC-GCNU PhD Programme.

Studentships

Full funding is available to all students, regardless of nationality. Our PhD studentships cover UCL tuition fees for both home and international students and include an annual tax-free stipend of £30,839, as well as a travel budget for attending conferences and workshops.

We also welcome applications from students who already have secured outside funding or who are currently applying for other scholarships/studentships.

Contact us

If you have any further questions, please contact us at SWC-PhDprogramme@ucl.ac.uk.

Photo of Gatsby and SWC PhD students talking at a Centre event

Other PhD Programmes at the Sainsbury Wellcome Centre

SWC/Gatsby Joint PhD Programme

Gatsby PhD Programme