The prestigious Medical Research Council (MRC) Biostatistics Unit (BSU) at the University of Cambridge is offering highly competitive, fully-funded PhD studentships for the 2026 academic year.

Are you a highly numerate student with a strong background in Statistics, Mathematics, or Data Science? Do you want to apply innovative statistical and AI methods to tackle the world's most pressing biomedical challenges? This is a premier opportunity to launch your career as an independent researcher at one of Europe's largest and most influential biostatistics centers.

Program Host and Research Focus

The MRC Biostatistics Unit (BSU), based at the University of Cambridge, is dedicated to advancing human health through methodological excellence. The PhD program offers a unique environment where students develop groundbreaking statistical theory while applying it to real-world biomedical problems.

Successful candidates will contribute to a broad research portfolio organized around five main themes, with a recognized strength in Bayesian inference. Priority research areas for the 2026 intake include:

• Statistical Genetics and Genomics

• Artificial Intelligence (AI) / Machine Learning

• Precision Medicine

• Innovative Trial Designs

• Causal Inference and Longitudinal Data Analysis

• Evidence Synthesis in Public Health

Fully-Funded Studentships & Benefits 

The BSU aims to recruit three to four exceptional candidates for this intake. The highly sought-after studentships are fully-funded for three years and include comprehensive financial support:

• Full Coverage of University Fees: Tuition fees are paid in full.

• Annual Stipend: A tax-free stipend to cover living expenses (paid at the competitive UK Research and Innovation rate).

• Generous Training Budget: Access to a substantial travel and training budget to attend international conferences and specialized courses.

This funding is available to UK, EU, and International Students, making it an outstanding opportunity for global talent.