Structure of the Programme
The LSTM and Lancaster University partnership offers candidates the opportunity to work in an environment which fosters research excellence in pursuit of the mission to reduce the burden of sickness and mortality in disease endemic countries through delivery of interventions which improve human health and are relevant to the poorest communities.
The 4-year structure enables a staged entry to doctorate study. Prior to enrolment, successful candidates will indicate a preferred PhD project selection and will register at the host institution (either LSTM or Lancaster), depending on the project host. The programme is flexible and there is scope during Year 1 to change projects and transfer registration if required.
Year 1
Year 1 facilitates development of:
- Knowledge in key priority areas of the DTP via exposure to core competency training modules in translational research and quantitative skills;
- Research skills via ‘immersion’ projects;
- A PhD project proposal developed in partnership with supervisors and collaborators.
The core competency training modules in Year 1 will take place at Lancaster University, with compulsory modules running in-person between October–December. During this time you will be expected to be on-site in Lancaster 2–5 days each week. The timetable for these modules will be confirmed before registration in October 2025. You will be asked to select one optional module that will run for a couple of weeks between January–April.
Transition from Year 1 to Year 2
Students must submit a portfolio of evidence relating to their progress and participate in a Defence of Concept presentation (equivalent to an oral examination). This will cover performance to date, assessment of work and outputs related to the PhD project, and alignment of the project to the goals and objectives of the DTP. Outputs are used to determine onward progress to Year 2.
Years 2–4
Students will progress with greater independence, performing primary research, analysis, and write-up towards a high-quality doctoral thesis. Students are encouraged to use training and development opportunities via LSTM and Lancaster core initiatives, and may access additional funding for internships, placements, or high-cost training to prepare for their next career stage.