School of Pharmacy

PhD Postgraduate research in Pharmacy

PhD Part-time 8 years, Full-time 4 years

The PhD in Pharmacy at the University of Wolverhampton offers an exceptional platform for advancing pharmaceutical science and practice. This programme is designed for researchers eager to contribute to critical developments in areas such as drug design, clinical pharmacy, and pharmaceutical technology, addressing global health challenges.

The PhD in Pharmacy at the University of Wolverhampton offers an exceptional platform for advancing pharmaceutical science and practice. This programme is designed for researchers eager to contribute to critical developments in areas such as drug design, clinical pharmacy, and pharmaceutical technology, addressing global health challenges.

Award
PhD
Start date(s)
Variable start date
UCAS Code
Course specifications
Course length
Part-time (8 years),Full-time (4 years)
Campus location
University: City Campus
UCAS points calculator

Why choose this course?

PhD Supervisor

Photo of Dr Mark Morris

Dr Mark Morris leads a research group within the Research Institute of Healthcare Science (RIHS) investigating the molecular biology and genetics of cancer development.

The PhD in Pharmacy at the University of Wolverhampton combines expert supervision, cutting-edge facilities, and a vibrant research community to support your journey as a researcher. Here’s why this programme is the ideal choice:

1. Expert Supervision

  • Work under the guidance of experienced academics, including Dr Mark Morris, who leads a research group investigating the molecular biology and genetics of cancer development.
  • Receive tailored mentorship from supervisory teams with a proven track record of successful PhD completions.

2. State-of-the-Art Facilities

  • Access advanced pharmaceutical laboratories equipped for research in drug development, formulation, and analysis.
  • Utilise specialised equipment for innovative research in areas such as natural products, drug delivery systems, and pharmacology.

3. Research Opportunities

  • Engage in cutting-edge research across diverse areas, including drug design, clinical pharmacy practice, and pharmaceutical public health.
  • Collaborate with research groups in biomedical sciences and chemistry, expanding the interdisciplinary impact of your work.

4. Professional and Academic Development

  • Participate in workshops, seminars, and training offered by the Doctoral College, enhancing your research methodologies, academic writing, and presentation skills.
  • Gain teaching experience by supporting undergraduate practical sessions, building your professional profile.

5. Industry and Clinical Partnerships

  • Benefit from strong connections with pharmaceutical companies, healthcare providers, and research organisations.
  • Collaborate on research projects with NHS trusts and healthcare partners, ensuring your work has real-world relevance and impact.

6. Supportive Research Community

  • Join a collegiate research environment with access to dedicated postgraduate research spaces and the Harrison Learning Centre’s pharmacy resources.
  • Network with peers and experts through regular research seminars and collaborative initiatives.

This programme offers the perfect blend of academic rigour, practical applications, and professional development, equipping you to make significant contributions to the pharmaceutical sciences.

What's unique about this course?

The PhD in Pharmacy at the University of Wolverhampton stands out for its combination of expert supervision, cutting-edge facilities, and impactful research opportunities. Here’s what makes this programme unique:

1. Expert Supervision

  • Collaborate with accomplished academics such as Dr Mark Morris, who leads research in molecular biology and cancer genetics.
  • Work with supervisory teams renowned for their expertise and commitment to mentoring successful doctoral researchers.

2. Cutting-Edge Research Facilities

  • Conduct your research in advanced pharmaceutical laboratories equipped with state-of-the-art tools for drug development, formulation, and analysis.
  • Access specialised technologies for pharmacological studies, natural product research, and drug delivery innovation.

3. Diverse Research Opportunities

  • Explore a wide range of topics, including pharmaceutical technology, clinical pharmacy practice, and public health.
  • Collaborate with research groups across biomedical sciences and chemistry, fostering interdisciplinary innovation.

4. Professional Development

  • Participate in tailored training programmes offered by the Doctoral College, enhancing your academic and technical skills.
  • Gain teaching experience by supporting undergraduate practical sessions, building your professional portfolio.

5. Industry and Clinical Connections

  • Benefit from strong partnerships with pharmaceutical companies, NHS trusts, and healthcare providers.
  • Ensure your research remains relevant and impactful through real-world applications and collaborations.

6. Vibrant Research Community

  • Join a supportive environment that encourages knowledge exchange through seminars, forums, and collaborative initiatives.

7. Flexible Study Options

  • Choose full-time (4 years) or part-time (8 years) study modes, allowing you to balance academic and personal commitments.

This programme provides the perfect platform to advance your career in pharmaceutical sciences, contributing to innovative solutions and global health improvements.

What happens on the course?

The PhD in Pharmacy at the University of Wolverhampton is structured to ensure a rigorous and rewarding research journey. Each phase is designed to support your academic development and guide you towards producing impactful, high-quality research.

1. Registration

  • Expression of Interest: Submit an online application detailing your proposed area of research.
  • Supervisor Allocation: Upon acceptance, you will be matched with a supervisory team, including experienced academics such as Dr Mark Morris.
  • Proposal Development: Collaborate with your supervisor to refine your research proposal, ensuring it meets academic and industry standards.
  • Approval Process: Present your proposal to the Faculty Research Committee (FRC) for approval, demonstrating its feasibility and appropriate resourcing.

2. Induction and Training

  • Attend induction workshops and training sessions provided by the Doctoral College to build foundational research and technical skills.
  • Familiarise yourself with the advanced resources and facilities available in the University’s pharmaceutical laboratories.

3. Progression

  • Progress Report Submission: Within 18 months (full-time) or 36 months (part-time), submit a detailed progress paper summarising your achievements and outlining your future research plans.
  • Oral Presentation: Present your progress at a workshop, receiving constructive feedback from academic experts and peers.
  • Independent Assessment: An external assessor will evaluate your work to ensure your research is on track and meeting required standards.

4. Research and Collaboration

  • Conduct research in areas such as drug development, pharmaceutical technology, or clinical pharmacy practice.
  • Collaborate with interdisciplinary research groups and external industry or clinical partners, enhancing the scope and impact of your work.
  • Share your findings through departmental seminars, peer-reviewed publications, and external conferences.

5. Examination

  • Thesis Submission: Document your research findings in a comprehensive thesis that contributes new knowledge to pharmaceutical science.
  • Viva Voce (Oral Examination): Defend your thesis before a panel of examiners, including at least one external expert, ensuring the academic rigour and significance of your work.

6. Research Dissemination

  • Publish your research in leading journals to establish your contribution to the field of pharmacy.
  • Present your findings at national and international conferences, building professional networks and gaining recognition.

This structured programme ensures a holistic research experience, equipping you with the skills and expertise to excel in pharmaceutical sciences and related fields.

Potential Career Paths

Additional Information

Everything you need to know about this course!

The University of Wolverhampton provides a thriving environment for research in pharmacy, combining expert supervision, advanced facilities, and strong industry links. The PhD programme in Pharmacy equips you to contribute meaningfully to pharmaceutical science while benefiting from a supportive and innovative research culture.

Why Choose Wolverhampton?

  1. Expert Supervision

    • Work under the guidance of accomplished academics such as Dr Mark Morris, who leads pioneering research in molecular biology and cancer genetics.
    • Collaborate with supervisory teams known for their successful mentorship and expertise across pharmaceutical sciences.
  2. State-of-the-Art Facilities

    • Conduct research in specialised pharmaceutical laboratories equipped for advanced drug design, formulation, and analytical studies.
    • Access sophisticated technologies for research in pharmacology, drug delivery, and natural products.
  3. Professional and Academic Development

    • Enhance your skills through workshops, seminars, and training sessions organised by the Doctoral College, covering research methods, project management, and academic writing.
    • Gain teaching experience through supporting undergraduate modules, boosting your academic profile.
  4. Industry and Clinical Partnerships

    • Collaborate with pharmaceutical companies, NHS trusts, and healthcare providers, ensuring your research has real-world impact.
    • Benefit from the University’s strong ties to industry, providing opportunities for internships and collaborative research projects.
  5. Supportive Research Environment

    • Access dedicated postgraduate research spaces and the comprehensive pharmacy resources of the Harrison Learning Centre.
    • Participate in regular research seminars, fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange within the pharmacy research community.
  6. Flexible Study Options

    • Choose between full-time (4 years) or part-time (8 years) study modes, tailored to suit your personal and professional commitments.

Research Areas

The University of Wolverhampton welcomes research proposals in a wide range of topics, including:

  • Drug Design and Development: Exploring novel compounds and formulations to treat diseases.
  • Pharmaceutical Technology and Formulation: Developing innovative drug delivery systems and manufacturing processes.
  • Clinical Pharmacy Practice: Investigating effective patient care and medication management strategies.
  • Pharmacy Education and Professional Practice: Improving teaching methods and professional development in pharmacy.
  • Natural Products and Phytotherapy: Researching plant-based compounds for therapeutic applications.
  • Pharmaceutical Analysis: Developing advanced techniques for quality assurance and control.
  • Pharmacology and Therapeutics: Studying the effects and mechanisms of drugs in disease treatment.
  • Pharmaceutical Public Health: Addressing public health challenges through pharmacy-based interventions.

This combination of cutting-edge facilities, expert supervision, and diverse research opportunities ensures Wolverhampton is an exceptional choice for advancing your career in pharmacy.

The PhD in Pharmacy at the University of Wolverhampton equips you with an advanced skill set to excel in pharmaceutical research, academia, and industry.

1. Advanced Research Proficiency

  • Design and execute original research in areas such as drug development, pharmaceutical technology, and clinical pharmacy.
  • Gain expertise in advanced data collection, analysis, and interpretation techniques.

2. Technical Expertise

  • Master the use of specialised equipment and technologies for pharmaceutical analysis, drug delivery systems, and pharmacological studies.
  • Develop skills in laboratory techniques for quality assurance, formulation, and natural product research.

3. Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving

  • Address complex pharmaceutical challenges through innovative and evidence-based solutions.
  • Evaluate and improve existing research methods, contributing to advancements in pharmaceutical science.

4. Academic and Professional Communication

  • Write high-quality research papers for publication in leading scientific journals.
  • Deliver impactful presentations at national and international conferences, effectively communicating your findings to diverse audiences.

5. Project Management and Leadership

  • Plan and manage large-scale research projects, ensuring timely completion of milestones.
  • Develop leadership skills by mentoring junior researchers and collaborating with interdisciplinary teams.

6. Networking and Collaboration

  • Build professional connections with academics, healthcare professionals, and industry leaders.
  • Collaborate with pharmaceutical companies and clinical partners, ensuring practical applications for your research.

7. Teaching and Mentorship

  • Gain teaching experience by supporting undergraduate pharmacy modules, enhancing your academic CV.
  • Mentor postgraduate peers and share knowledge within the research community.

These skills position graduates to lead in academia, healthcare, or industry, making significant contributions to pharmaceutical science and improving patient outcomes worldwide.

Location Mode Fee Year
Home Full-time £4596 per year 2022-23
Home Full-time £4596 per year 2022-23
Home Full-time £4712 per year 2023-24
Home Full-time £4786 per year 2024-25
Home Full-time £5006 per year 2025-26
Home Part-time £4596 per year 2022-23
Home Part-time £2298 per year 2022-23
Home Part-time £4712 per year 2023-24
Home Part-time £4786 per year 2024-25
Home Part-time £5006 per year 2025-26
International Full-time £14450 per year 2022-23
International Full-time £14450 per year 2022-23
International Full-time £15450 per year 2023-24
International Full-time £15950 per year 2024-25
International Full-time £16950 per year 2025-26
International Part-time £14450 per year 2022-23
International Part-time £15450 per year 2023-24
International Part-time £15950 per year 2024-25
International Part-time £16950 per year 2025-26

The University is committed to a transparent fee structure, with no hidden costs, to help you make an informed decision. This includes information on what is included in the fee and how fees are calculated and reviewed

 Applicants for a research degree shall normally hold either:

 • a first or upper second class honours degree, or

 • a master’s degree, or

 • evidence of prior practice or learning that is accepted by the Dean of Research.

Applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English at least to the level of an IELTS score (or equivalent) of 7.0, with no individual element less than 6.0. The only exemption to this is for students who are not required to do so as per UKVI regulations: https://www.gov.uk/student-visa/knowledge-of-english. 

 

Financial support for research study:

Before applying, you should consider carefully how you will finance your studies for the duration of your programme, including tuition fees, research support fees and living costs.


Government loans (Home Fee Status):

Government loans are available for postgraduate research students of up to £28,673, to cover fees and living expenses. More information can be found at Doctoral-loans website.


Studying in the UK:Guidance for EU students

For 2021/22 new entrants, EU, other EEA and Swiss nationals will no longer be eligible for home fee status and financial support from Student Finance England.


Self-funded:

We are able to take payments in instalments, to spread out the cost of your studies, and it is possible to switch between full-time and part-time modes of study. For more information go to How to pay.


Postgraduate Research Loyalty Discount:

To students progressing from an undergraduate programme and/or a taught postgraduate programme to a postgraduate research programme, where both courses are University of Wolverhampton Awards.

There is no time limit on how long ago you completed your degree and/or Masters level qualification, as long as the new award is at a higher level.

For full terms and conditions please see: Loyalty Discount for Postgraduate Research Students


Research councils:

The UK Research and Innovation funds postgraduate study in all subject areas on a discretionary basis.


University Research Studentships:

The University offers a very limited number of research stipends, formerly known as bursaries, to research students. Stipends are designed to support specific projects as determined by the Research Institute rather than individual student-led projects. Funds are accessible from the relevant Research Institute or Centre - please contact them directly.


Other sources:

Dennis Turner Opportunity Fund.

You can find more information on the University’s Funding, cost, fee and support pages.

Telephone

01902 32 22 22

Email

enquiries@wlv.ac.uk

Online

Order a prospectus