How to apply
Stage 1
During Stage 1 you will be asked to submit a form consisting of:
- Title, name, contact details, nationality and fee status;
- Selection of your first preferred project choice (you may be asked to select up to 3 projects if successful at Stage 1);
- Motivation for applying to the programme;
- Your academic qualifications;
- Relevant professional or voluntary experience;
- Relevant publications you have contributed to.
From Tuesday 11th November 2025: Please click here to apply.
Deadline for Stage 1 applications: 12:00 Noon (GMT) on Wednesday 3rd December 2025
You can submit only one application. Applications cannot be changed once submitted. We encourage contact with potential supervisors about projects before applying. Recruitment is conducted to ensure EDI; personal identifiable information will be removed before assessment.
If you have questions, please view our MRC DTP website or email pgr@lstmed.ac.uk. Successful candidates will be notified by Thursday 19th December 2025 and invited to make a full application.
Stage 2
If you pass Stage 1, you will be invited to submit a full application. References will only be requested at Stage 2; however, have them ready. English language evidence may be requested. For Lancaster-based projects, Lancaster English language requirements apply; contact pgadmissions@lancaster.ac.uk if unsure.
Deadline for Stage 2: 23:59 (GMT) on Tuesday 13th January 2026.
If you have not previously applied to an LSTM programme you will need to register with MyLSTM. Contact pgr@lstmed.ac.uk with questions. The recruitment team will be unavailable between 20th December 2025 – 5th January 2026.
Successful candidates will be notified by Friday 6th February 2026 and invited to interview (date to be determined).
Please note: LSTM can make an offer of funding, but a final Confirmation of Place is required to take up funding on an LSTM or Lancaster PhD programme. Lancaster-based projects will require a Confirmation of Place from Lancaster following review of English language, qualification, and visa requirements.
FAQs
Can the English language requirement for international applicants be waived?
The English Language Waiver Programme does not apply to this course. You must provide evidence that you meet LSTM’s minimum English language requirements. A full list of accepted formats is available from LSTM. International applicants will be subject to UKVI visa rules. For Lancaster projects, Lancaster's English requirements apply.
What is my fee status?
See the Residence eligibility and What is my fee status? sections above. If unsure, contact mailto:pgr@lstmed.ac.ukpgr@lstmed.ac.uk for advice.
Where will I register for my PhD?
Students selecting a project led by an LSTM supervisor will register at LSTM; those selecting a Lancaster-based supervisor will register at Lancaster University. Supervision can be split between institutions and external supervisors are permitted. UKRI expects students to be located within a reasonable distance of their home institution.
Do I need to be in Lancaster if I am registered at LSTM?
Yes. All students are expected to complete the core competency Year 1 modules at Lancaster and will be expected on-site 2–5 days per week between October–December. Optional modules between January–April may also require on-site attendance.
Timeline for core modules (October–December)
- Programming for Health Data Science – Weeks 1–7: 9th October – 24th November. Days at Lancaster: Monday and Friday.
- Statistical Methods and Models for Health Research – Weeks 4–8: 30th October – 1st December. Days at Lancaster: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday.
- Introduction to Applied Epidemiology – Weeks 7–9: 20th November – 8th December. Days at Lancaster: Tuesday and Wednesday.
Do I need to arrange accommodation in Lancaster during the core modules?
LSTM-registered students may receive financial support for travel and short-term accommodation where required; requests must be agreed in advance. Lancaster-registered students are expected to cover travel and accommodation costs themselves, though LSTM will provide guidance and travel reimbursement for visits to LSTM where appropriate.