The Loke Centre for Trophoblast Research (CTR) provides a dynamic environment for PhD training in placental biology and reproductive science. Founded in 2007, it brings together over 30 Principal Investigators with a shared interest in the scientific study of the placenta, early development and maternal-fetal interactions during pregnancy.
Our PIs are recognized international experts in their fields based across Cambridge in the Departments of Physiology, Development, and Neuroscience, Obstetrics and Gynaecology,
Pathology, Genetics, and allied institutes, including the Institute of Metabolic Science, Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, Cambridge Institute of Therapeutic Immunology and Infectious Disease, the LMB, Babraham, and Wellcome Sanger Institute. A Loke CTR Studentship will be held within the relevant department or Institute, where an internal Departmental Postgraduate Educational Committee is responsible for administering your degree.
Our PhD students have access to unique training opportunities to prepare them for successful careers in research. Students will present their research by giving seminars at our annual Away Days and international conferences, and attend a variety of seminars given by distinguished scientists with the Loke CTR and affiliated Department or Institute.
There are also opportunities to participate and present in interdisciplinary seminars hosted by Cambridge Reproduction of which the Loke CTR is a founding member. Students will gain training in our Placental Biology Course and receive support from them to attend international meetings. Loke CTR PhD students will also become members of the Postgraduate School of the Life Sciences, which organises and promotes many further training opportunities.
We are pleased to consider applications for fully funded, full-time study over four years or part-time over five years. Studentships are open for applications in October of the year prior to the start of your studies.
Application Procedure
Please investigate research projects on offer for the 2025/2026 application cycle and contact potential supervisors in advance of applying. Once you have identified a potential supervisor(s) and project(s), please make a formal application following the instructions and requirements detailed on our website.
The application deadline is 3 November 2026. We will hold an initial round of Zoom interviews with potential PhD supervisors in late November (2026). Shortlisted candidates will be invited to a second round of interviews in early January (2027).
Finance
Loke CTR PhD Studentships will cover all University and College fees at home or international rates, along with a stipend of £22,000 per year.
