Choosing a Project

PhDs at the Institute of Dentistry fall into two categories: projects initiated and developed by the applicant, in consultation with a supervisor in the Institute, and projects on a specific topic chosen by the Institute (these often have funding attached).

• Self-initiated projects: this could be on any topic within dentistry. However, please note that we can only provide supervision on subject areas in which we have specific expertise so you should carefully consider whether your project fits with the research interests of the Institute.
• Specific projects: from time to time, we advertise places for PhDs on a specific topic. These usually have funding attached and are sometimes connected to larger research projects being undertaken in the Institute by one or more members of staff. Funding can come from a number of sources, but is normally from one of the UK Research Councils or through Queen Mary’s own funding schemes. Funding usually covers tuition fees and provides a living allowance for up to three years. Any funded places are advertised nationally.

For all projects you will have to identify a potential supervisor. See our Supervision page for a list of research areas and relevant members of staff.

Once you have identified an appropriate primary supervisor, you should make contact via email to establish whether your research is something they can supervise. In your initial email you should send your CV and a research proposal.

For more information on what information to send to a potential supervisor, see our ‘How to apply’ section.

More information about the structure of your research proposal can be found in the ‘How to draft a research proposal’ section.

If the supervisor is able to take your project on and is happy with your proposal they will encourage you to make a formal application (please note that this recognition from a supervisor does not guarantee that your application will be successful) including a full-length research proposal between 2,000 and 3,000 words long.