The Institute of Food Research (IFR) is a world leader in research into harnessing food for health and controlling food-related diseases. Our scientists address the UK’s Grand Challenges of obesity and healthy ageing by defining the relationship between food, diet and health. We undertake internationally-ranked fundamental, strategic and applied research with high socio-economic impact, making a real difference to quality of life. IFR is a dynamic, multinational community of scientists and students and its reputation for scientific excellence is known worldwide, attracting some of the best scientists and students from around the world. State-of-the-art equipment and facilities provide an ideal environment for training in research and a springboard to a diversity of careers in research or other science related professions.
Key Research Areas
Integrated Biology of the GI Tract
Plant Natural Products and Health
Food Structure & Health
Foodborne Bacterial Pathogens
Postgraduate Opportunities
• Three Year PhD (fast track studentship)
• Four Year PhD (project studentship)
• One Year MSc by Research
Students are able to choose from a wide range of research areas and are registered for their PhD’s with the University of East Anglia, which is a short walk from the Institute of Food Research site. The IFR also benefits from being a core member of the Norwich Research Park which houses more than 2,500 scientists across six institutions.
Funded opportunities are advertised on our website throughout the year, but the majority are open to applications from the middle of October, with interviews taking place at the end of December or the start of January. For details of studentships currently being advertised follow this link
http://www.ifr.ac.uk/students/search/current_opps.asp
Entry Requirements
The standard academic qualification expected for a PhD studentship is an Upper Second Class (Hons) Degree (2i or equivalent). All application forms should be accompanied with copies of degree transcripts (translated into English) in order for the Graduate Studies Office to make a decision on academic eligibility
In addition, if your first language is not English, then you must provide satisfactory evidence of proficiency in both written and spoken English. The preferred qualification is British Council International English Language Testing System (IELTS) test in which a minimum score of 6.5 is required. However, you will be exempt from this requirement if you have already completed a degree course in an English-speaking country before beginning your studies
Funding
The Institute of Food Research offers PhDs funded from a number of sources including an annual doctoral training account from the BBSRC. Student funding includes a stipend to cover living costs, payment of tuition fees and additional support to cover training costs and conferences.
Student Life
IFR prides itself on its proactive approach to training research students. It has a UEA Graduate Studies Committee that constantly monitors all aspects of postgraduate research and the student experience at the Centre. The Student Voice Committee, which is a forum for students to comment on issues and activities related to them, helps to integrate students into the life of the Institute. The students have their own website and they run a popular seminar series with speakers ranging from academics and alumni to scientists in the media.
Students at the IFR also have full access to the university’s facilities and services including Student Support and Housing advice. In addition, the UEA boasts the multi-million pound Sportspark which is the largest indoor sports centre in Britain. It also houses, the Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts and the LCR, a vibrant music venue run by the Student Union.
Location
The Institute of Food Research is based on the outskirts of Norwich, which is 2 hours from London and the Midlands by rail. Norwich is a diverse and sophisticated city, rich in heritage and popular for its shopping and nightlife. The city is also in the heart of the Norfolk countryside, which makes it a great base for exploring the Broads and the coast.
Contact
For more information visit: http://www.ifr.ac.uk/students/index.htm
Email: graduates.nrp@bbsrc.ac.uk