Embedded Files
The Plant BioDesign programme has an extensive support network as illustrated in the figure below, this will be explained in more detail during induction.
Application support
Application support
The application process has been designed with EDI (Equality, Diversity and Inclusion) in mind:
The programme is advertised via Generation Research, Black in Plant Science Network, Yorkshire Consortium for Equity in Doctoral Education, through academic and non-academic partners, as well as via host institution websites and findaphd.com
Applications are accepted across a range of disciplines and from applicants with diverse backgrounds and experiences
EDI information is collected as part of the application process to enable us to monitor any bias in our recruitment process. EDI data is removed and anonymised before evaluation of applications
Assessment of applications is based on qualifications, research experience (bearing in mind varying opportunities for experience and different types of experience, e.g. in industry), motivation for undertaking a PhD and motivation for a specific research project
Information such as CVs and transcripts are only requested for short-listed applicants
We also provide a mentoring scheme for applicants
Further information of the programme and upcoming application process will be released in Autumn 2026 in the form of a webinar from Professor Katherine Denby. Katherine is part of the leadership team for Plant BioDesign at the University of York.
Accessibility and disability support
Accessibility and disability support
The training aspects of the course have been interspersed across the 4 years, rather than an intensive first year of training. This model makes training more accessible to part-time students or those requiring additional support to participate or with any other responsibilities.
Our core training events are mandatory and Plant BioDesign can provide financial (and other) support where needed to enable all PGRs to participate.
Interviews will be held in-person, but there is an online interview option to meet individual needs. Interview questions will be provided before the interview to allow applicants enough time to prepare and properly portray their suitability for the role.
Relevant help pages
Relevant help pages
University of York: Information for Current Research Students
University of Cambridge: Postgraduate Overview at Cambridge Plant Science, Postgraduate Research at the Sainsbury Lab, and Postgraduate Research at the Cambridge Sainsbury Lab
John Innes Centre: Postgraduate Opportunities at the John Innes Centre
University of Bristol: Postgraduate life at Bristol
Page updated
Report abuse