PhD Journey
Hear our director share his inspiring journey into research and what you need to do a PhD.
Giulia Ginami shares how her PhD has shaped her career and led to her current role at Siemens Healthineers.
We invite applications from eligible Home and Overseas candidates for a fully funded PhD studentship associated with the project 2026_003: Self-driving fetal MRI commencing in February 2027.
If you’ve missed our Application Clinic please see the FAQ to hear insights from staff, students and alumni about the programme.
If you’d like to watch the full recording, please email imaging-cdt@kcl.ac.uk.
ELIGIBILITY
Medical Imaging is a broad, multidisciplinary research field that attracts candidates from diverse academic and professional backgrounds. Prospective candidates should have, or be on track to achieve, a First Class or high Upper Second Class undergraduate degree, or a Distinction at Master’s level, in one of the following subjects:
Applied Mathematics / Mathematics
Biochemistry
Biology
Biomedical Engineering
Chemistry
Computer Science
Physics
Pharmaceutical Sciences
Other engineering-related disciplines
Other relevant qualifications may also be considered, and all applications will be assessed individually. We particularly welcome applications from individuals with non-traditional backgrounds (e.g., industry experience or career breaks) and from groups currently under-represented in academia. You do not need to have completed your undergraduate studies to apply; however, any offer will be conditional on successful completion of your degree.
All applicants should demonstrate enthusiasm, an open mind, and aptitude for the programme.
Candidates will be evaluated on their alignment with the programme’s mission, motivation to undertake PhD research, and overall technical and scientific capabilities.
FUNDING
INFORMATION
The studentship provides full funding for 3.5 years, covering tuition fees, a stipend, and a research support allowance.
Tuition Fees: Covered for Home and International students.
Stipend: £23,805 (2026/27 UKRI rate), paid monthly and tax-free
Research Training Support Grant (RTSG): Up to £10,500 over 3.5 years for research costs and conference attendance.
NOTE FOR INTERNATIONAL APPLICANTS
Please note that costs related to Student Visa applications and the International Healthcare Surcharge (IHS) are not covered and must be met by the applicant. These costs currently total £4,016.
Non-EU international applicants may require ATAS clearance. While there is no charge for ATAS, processing can take up to 3 months.
HOW TO APPLY
FURTHER CALLS SHALL FOLLOW FOR OCTOBER 2027 START
THE INFORMATION PROVIDED BELOW IS STRICTLY REFERRING TO THE APPLICATION PROCESS FOR PROJECT 2026_003. DIFFERENT GUIDELINES MAY APPLY FOR OTHER RECRUITMENT ROUNDS.
To apply, follow these steps:
1. Create an account with King’s Apply.
2. Submit an application for the Medical Imaging from Molecules to Populations Programme.
3. Select the relevant start date: 1 February 2027.
4. Ensure you include the following:
– A PDF copy of your CV (upload under Employment History).
– A personal statement outlining your motivation for postgraduate research and your specific interest for project 2026_003 within the Multiscale Medical Imaging Doctoral Programme (use this template-link).
The application includes a diversity monitoring form, as required by our funder (EPSRC). This form is not used in the shortlisting process and will remain confidential. The information provided will not be shared with the selection panel and cannot be linked to individual applicants.
Once completed, save the form as a PDF and upload it to the Supporting Statement section.
References
Two references are required for your application. Enter your referee’s details in the online form; they will receive a link to King’s Referee Portal to submit their reference. References must come from an official professional email address; we cannot accept personal emails (e.g., Gmail, Yahoo) or references from family or friends.
Do not include a research proposal.
Funding
Choose Option 5 ‘I am applying for a funding award or scholarship administered by King’s College London’. Enter the code under ‘Award Scheme Code or Name’: MMI_DLA_KDP
NEXT STEPS
Shortlisted candidates will be invited to attend an online interview, likely in the w/c 7 September 2026. The interview will provide an opportunity for applicants to discuss their academic background, previous research experience, motivation for pursuing doctoral study, and their suitability for the project. Candidates will also be asked to discuss a recent research project and engage in a discussion of a relevant scientific paper.
Further details about the interview format and schedule will be provided to shortlisted candidates.
Successful applicants will receive an offer for the PhD project 2026_003: Self Driving MRI, subject to meeting the programme’s academic and admissions requirements.
For any questions about the recruitment process, please email imaging-cdt@kcl.ac.uk.