MRC LID is now open for applications to join the program in September 2025.

The London Intercollegiate Doctoral Training Partnership (MRC LID) is a partnership between St George’s, University of London, part of City St George’s, University of London (CSG) and London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (LSHTM), funded by the Medical Research Council (MRC).

MRC LID brings together two outstanding specialist schools to provide integrated skills training to develop a cohort of biomedical and public health scientists with world-class expertise in areas of strategic importance to UK and global medical research.

ELIGIBILITY:

Applicants must hold, or expect to obtain before September 2025, an undergraduate degree (or equivalent qualifications gained outside the UK) in a relevant area. Ideally, the DTP would expect applicants to hold a 1st or 2.1 Honours undergraduate degree. Where applicants hold a 2.2 undergraduate degree (or equivalent), they should very clearly show their relevant prior experience and skills, and their suitability to undertake a PhD, in their application to provide a competitive comparison.

Those applying for +4 Studentships should also preferably hold, or expect to obtain, a relevant Masters, or have a combination of relevant qualifications and experience which demonstrates equivalent ability and attainment. This may include a period of employment or internship in a relevant environment. Both transcripts and employment history will be reviewed.

All applicants can apply for these studentships, regardless of nationality.

International students should note, though, that there some differences in awards offered to those who do not meet Home fee status requirements (mostly non-UK nationals) because of funder rules. These are:

MRC LID is limited to awarding up to two studentships per year to applicants who do not meet ‘Home’ fee status requirements. This means that competition is very strong.

The funder only provides tuition fees at the ‘Home’ fee rate. This means that further funds are required to cover the remainder of fees.

Please see MRC LID Applicant Guidance and FAQs on the MRC LID How to Apply page for further information.

For further information on Home or Overseas Fee Status
UKCISA: Clear outline of UK government regulations which universities use to make fee status assessments.

International students may be required to show that they meet the English language requirements of their primary institution (where their proposed primary/lead supervisor is based).

LSHTM English language requirements

CSG English language requirements for international students

Applicants who are offered a studentship award will be expected to provide relevant proof at that stage.

BENEFIT:

For the duration of the award each MRC LID Studentship will provide :

tuition fees at the UKRI Studentship rate +

annual stipend at the UKRI Studentship rate with London weighting +

additional support for research and training