Medical Research Council Laboratory of Molecular Biology
- Acceptance Rate
- 65.0%
- SAT Range
- 1050–1250
- ACT Range
- N/A
- Avg GPA
- 3.25
- Size
- N/A
- Type
- N/A
- Student:Faculty
- N/A
- Setting
- N/A
- Graduation Rate
- N/A
- Retention Rate
- N/A
- Tuition (In-State)
- N/A
- Tuition (Int'l)
- N/A
Student Life & Environment
Life as a PhD student at the LMB combines intensive research engagement with Cambridge's exceptional academic and cultural environment. The laboratory's collegial atmosphere encourages interaction across research groups, with shared spaces, seminars, and social events building community among scientists at all career stages. Cambridge provides a distinctive student experience through its collegiate university structure. LMB students affiliate with colleges that provide accommodation, dining, social activities, and pastoral support alongside the research training received at the laboratory. This dual affiliation creates rich networks extending beyond the immediate research community. The city of Cambridge offers historic architecture, world-class museums and libraries, diverse restaurants and pubs, beautiful gardens and green spaces, and easy access to the English countryside for cycling and outdoor activities. The compact city center enables most daily activities by bicycle, creating an enjoyable and healthy lifestyle. Support services include dedicated graduate student resources at both the LMB and affiliated colleges, mental health support, career guidance, and professional development programs. The LMB recognizes the challenges of doctoral research and works to create environments where students can thrive both scientifically and personally.
Location & Surroundings
The MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology occupies a purpose-built facility on the Cambridge Biomedical Campus, one of the largest biomedical research clusters in Europe. The campus brings together research institutes, the Addenbrooke's Hospital, teaching facilities, and biotechnology companies, creating exceptional opportunities for collaboration and career development. Cambridge combines centuries of academic tradition with contemporary innovation. The compact city center features beautiful college buildings, historic churches, independent shops, diverse restaurants, and vibrant pubs. The River Cam provides iconic punting opportunities and pleasant walks through college grounds. Green spaces including the Botanic Gardens and nearby countryside offer recreational opportunities. Transportation connections include direct trains to London (approximately one hour), frequent buses within the city, and excellent cycling infrastructure that makes bicycles the preferred transport for most researchers. London airports provide international connections, while Cambridge's small airport offers limited direct European routes. The broader Cambridge ecosystem includes numerous other research institutions, a thriving biotechnology industry, and a startup culture that has produced many successful companies. This concentration of scientific activity creates career opportunities and networking possibilities extending well beyond individual institutions.
Costs & Career Outcomes
PhD students at the LMB receive funding covering tuition fees plus living stipends currently around 20,000 pounds annually. This support enables focused research without financial pressures, though Cambridge's relatively high living costs require careful budgeting. College accommodation is typically available for at least the first year, with costs varying by college. Living expenses in Cambridge include accommodation (600-1000 pounds monthly for private rentals), food, transportation (minimal if cycling), and leisure activities. The overall cost of living is higher than UK averages but lower than London. College dining options and shared housing reduce costs for students willing to embrace communal living. Career outcomes from LMB training reflect the laboratory's exceptional reputation and research quality. Alumni lead research groups at universities worldwide, direct research institutes, hold senior positions in pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, and pursue diverse careers in science communication, policy, and consulting. The LMB actively supports career development through mentoring, workshops, networking events, and exposure to diverse career pathways. The strong alumni network provides ongoing connections and support. The Cambridge biotechnology cluster offers natural career opportunities, while the laboratory's global reputation opens doors internationally.
Campus Location
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