The PhD course is designed to produce graduates with rigorous research and analytical skills, who are exceptionally well-equipped to go onto doctoral research, or employment in industry and the public service. The PhD course provides: a period of sustained in-depth study of a specific topic; an environment that encourages the student’s originality and creativity in their research; skills to enable the student to critically examine the background literature relevant to their specific research area; the opportunity to develop skills in making and testing hypotheses, in developing new theories, and in planning and conducting experiments; the opportunity to expand the student’s knowledge of their research area, including its theoretical foundations and the specific techniques used to study it; the opportunity to gain knowledge of the broader field of cancer research; an environment in which to develop skills in written work, oral presentation and publishing the results of their research in high-profile scientific journals, through constructive feedback of written work and oral presentations. At the end of their PhD course, students should: have a thorough knowledge of the literature and a comprehensive understanding of scientific methods and techniques applicable to their own research; be able to demonstrate originality in the application of knowledge, together with a practical understanding of how research and enquiry are used to create and interpret knowledge in their field; have developed the ability to critically evaluate current research and research techniques and methodologies; have self-direction and originality in tackling and solving problems; be able to act autonomously in the planning and implementation of research; and have the gained oral presentation and scientific writing skills. To enhance their research, students are expected to attend seminars and graduate courses relevant to their area of interest. Students are also encouraged to undertake transferable skills training provided by the Graduate School of Life Sciences. At the end of the course, examination for the MPhil degree involves submission of a written dissertation, followed by an oral examination based on both the dissertation and a broader knowledge of the chosen area of research. Examination for the PhD degree involves submission of a written dissertation of not more than 60,000 words in length (excluding figures, tables, footnotes, appendices and bibliography), on a subject approved by the Degree Committee for the Faculties of Clinical Medicine and Veterinary Medicine. This is followed by an oral examination based on both the dissertation and a broader knowledge of the chosen area of research.