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Apply

Your Application

Full details on how to apply via your relevant track can be found through the links below.  

See the eligibility tab for more information on each track.

Initial screening 

Each year we receive a high volume of competitive applications across the Track 3 (Non-clinical / Fundamental Scientist - Biological background) pathway compared to the number of interview space we have available. To ensure we are identifying the strongest candidates to invite for formal interview we will be piloting the use of initial screening meetings for the 2026 admissions round.  

Up to 30 of the top-ranked candidates will be invited to participate in an online initial screening meeting. The meetings will be a structured discussion of around 10-15minutes with a select panel of the Cancer Science Programme’s Directors.  This discussion will serve as an opportunity to assess each candidate's research experience, suitability, and motivation for applying to the programme.  

From the initial screening meetings, up to 16 of the strongest candidates will be invited for a formal interview for the DPhil in Cancer Science.   

Interviews 

Final interviews will be offered to the top-ranked applicants across all tracks and will take place in January, with the outcomes being shared shortly afterwards. All candidates will be judged on the following; 

  • Evidence of a prior interest in the area of research proposed is likely to advantage your application. 
  • Prior publications are not required, but research experience and a track record demonstrating an interest in research may be an advantage. 
  • It would be expected that graduate applicants would be familiar with the recent published work of their proposed supervisor. 
  • Commitment to and passion for a career in cancer research. 
  • Reasoning ability and academic curiosity. 

These interviews will take place online and candidates will receive an email which will provide detailed information on how to join and what you will need to do to prepare.  

 

If you have any further questions about the programme or the application, please email cancertraining@medsci.ox.ac.uk.