Applications open for prestigious MIBTP PhD scholarships at Harper Adams University

Posted Today

New scholarships have been made available on a prestigious doctoral training programme. 

The Midlands Integrative Biosciences Training Partnership’s latest PhD opportunities for October 2027 entry at Harper Adams University have been announced. 

Funded by the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council, the partnership bringing together leading research-intensive universities from across the Midlands to develop the next generation of bioscience researchers. 

Professor Martin Hare, Director of the Partnership at the University, said: “A PhD through the MIBTP can be a springboard to a wide range of career opportunities. Former MIBTP students from Harper Adams have gone on to work in research, education, and government, applying their expertise in different professional settings. Alongside developing specialist research knowledge, doctoral training helps students build transferable skills in critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, and collaboration, equipping them to pursue diverse career paths and make an impact beyond their PhD.” 

The partnership includes the Universities of Warwick, Aston, Birmingham, Coventry and Leicester alongside Harper Adams, creating a rich interdisciplinary environment for postgraduate researchers – and a vibrant academic community, supported by world-leading expertise, industry engagement and a strong culture of collaboration. 

Successful students will join a dynamic cohort of researchers, benefiting not only from their individual PhD project but also from the wider MIBTP training programme, networking opportunities and skills development activities that prepare graduates for impactful careers across academia, industry and the bioscience sector. 

Alice King, whose research sees her examining individuality in guinea pigs which are used for teaching purposes, said: “I would highly recommend doing a MIBTP PhD. Their training modules provide key knowledge in statistics, programming and data science, and there are additional masterclasses on more specialized skills.  

“You are part of wider network of PhD students across six universities which provides a great opportunity to make friends and network - while learning about cutting-edge research.” 

Cara Wharton – who recently finished her studies - said: “I have enjoyed completing my MIBTP PhD research looking at rapid rooting traits in lettuce. 

“The training that the training partnership offered really helped with my research, especially the programming course. It also provided opportunities to connect with other PhD researchers and use facilities at the other Universities in the partnership.  

“I really enjoyed the quieter, more rural experience of Harper Adams University, and Harper Adams also has great links to industry - so it is a good option if you are looking to do a more applied PhD where there are real-world implications of your research.” 

Professor Hare added: “We are delighted to welcome applications from talented researchers who are passionate about tackling global challenges through innovative bioscience research.  

“From food security and sustainable agriculture to biotechnology, environmental resilience, and fundamental biological science, the MIBTP offers an exciting opportunity to develop the knowledge, skills and experience needed to make a meaningful contribution to science and society.  

“At Harper Adams University, we look forward to supporting the next generation of researchers as they begin their doctoral journey and explore where their curiosity and ambition can take them.”  

Prospective applicants are encouraged to explore the full range of available projects and contact supervisors to discuss research opportunities before submitting an application. 

 Full details of the projects, eligibility requirements and application process can be found on the Harper Adams MIBTP webpages.