Doctoral Research

Doctoral degrees at the University of Melbourne seek to develop students' academic leadership, increasing independence, creativity and innovation in their research.

Doctor of Philosophy - MDHS

The degree of Doctor of Philosophy (Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences) at the University of Melbourne marks a student’s admission to the community of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences scholars. It signifies that the holder has undertaken a substantial piece of original research which has been conducted and reported by the holder via thesis.

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MD-PhD

Combining a PhD with your MD may be an excellent option if you are already on your way to a career as a clinician-researcher. Discover the Melbourne MD-PhD pathway.

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Thematic PhD Programs

By enrolling in a PhD in the Medical School you may be eligible to participate in one of the following thematic PhD Programs to further provide candidates with additional development and support.

  • Child and Adolescent Health PhD Program

    The Child and Adolescent Health PhD Program complements your PhD studies. As a participant, you will join more than 200 graduate researchers at the Melbourne Children’s Campus.

  • Comprehensive Cancer PhD Program

    The Comprehensive Cancer PhD Program provides specialist cancer research training and support for PhD candidates. It complements your core PhD activities.

  • Infection and Immunity PhD Program

    This PhD Program is a supplementary learning opportunity that will enrich your PhD experience. As a participant, you will work with others who share a passion for discovering new knowledge about infection and immunity.

  • Medical Biology PhD Program

    When you join our PhD Program, you will work with others who share a passion for research related to medical biology. You’ll connect with graduate researchers from other disciplines. And you’ll engage with relevant external organisations.

  • Melbourne Neuroscience PhD Program

    This is a competitive program that complements your core PhD project. You will receive close mentoring from experts in the field of neuroscience. And you will benefit from a broad range of research initiatives.

  • Mental Health PhD Program

    This Program brings together graduate researchers addressing mental health from diverse disciplinary perspectives - psychiatry, psychology, epidemiology and community mental health, history and philosophy of psychiatry, general practice, paediatrics, psychiatric nursing, social work, among others.