SoCoBio Doctoral Training Partnership (Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council)

The University of Sussex is a member of the SoCoBio Doctoral Training Partnership, funded by the Biotechnology and Biosciences Research Council (BBSRC). As a SoCoBio student, you will follow a four-year research skills training programme and will have your PhD tuition fees and living allowance covered for the four years. You will also have access to further funds for research expenses.

All students will have supervisors from at least two SoCoBio partner institutions (Southampton, Kent, Portsmouth, East Malling Research and Sussex) and will follow the 4 year SoCoBio training programme: two laboratory rotations in year one, a placement, taught modules in entrepreneurship and data management and from Socobio summer schools and conferences.

PhD Scholarships

Applications will open in October each year with a deadline for applications in the following January.

See our full list of scholarships

How to apply for a SoCoBio scholarship

1. You must apply to the SoCoBio programme rather than directly for a specific project as the final choice of PhD project and of PhD supervisor is made during year one. Details of potential PhD projects and of how to apply are the SoCoBio system are on the SoCoBio website and are listed on the scholarships database.

2. In tandem you can also apply for a PhD place at Sussex using our online application system.

Find out how to apply to Sussex

You must indicate on your application form that you intend to apply for a SoCoBio scholarship, giving the title of the project.

You will be invited to an interview as part of your application for a SoCoBio scholarship.

Examples of SoCoBio funded scholarships

Recent SoCoBio projects have included:

More about the BBSRC

The mission of BBSRC is to lead world-class 21st century bioscience, promoting innovation in the bioeconomy and realising benefits for society within and beyond the UK.

Find out more about BBSRC


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