Fully Funded Glaucoma Research PhD 2025–26 at University of Liverpool, UK
Glaucoma is actually the leading cause of irreversible blindness in the world, affecting millions of peoples and threatening to increase more in the coming decades. The University of Liverpool, one of the UK’s most respected research institutions, has taken initiative to overmome this series issue by offering a unique PhD opportunity in glaucoma research for the 2025–2026 academic year. While the position is officially self-funded, fully funded scholarships can be taken through their various programs like Duncan Norman Research Scholarship which can provide complete tuition coverage and a generous living stipend for outstanding candidates.
This is an opportunity to work within a multi-disciplinary team of leading scientists, clinicians, and engineers to develop innovative solutions in regenerative medicine and ocular health — while living in one of the UK’s most vibrant and welcoming cities.
About the University of Liverpool
Founded in 1881, the University of Liverpool is backedb y Russell Group. Known for its world-class research in life sciences, engineering, and medical sciences fields, the famous institutions here are Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, where this PhD project will be based. The institution has a global outlook, welcoming thousands of international students each year, as of recent institutional figures, the University has approximately 26,560 students in total, including 8,210 international students.
Project Overview
The PhD project focuses on developing innovative biomaterials and surgical procedures to improve glaucoma treatment. The supervisory team brings together expertise in:
- Ocular cell and stem cell biology
- Biomedical and tissue engineering
- Regenerative medicine
- Ophthalmology and clinical eye health
The primary research goal is to better understand the pathobiology of aqueous humour (AH) outflow from the eye — a key factor in regulating intraocular pressure (IOP), the main modifiable risk factor for glaucoma progression.
Why This Research Matters
Glaucoma affects over 76 million people globally and is projected to reach 112 million by 2040. Current treatments focus on lowering IOP, but many patients still lose vision over time. By combining novel in vitro models, organ-on-a-chip systems, and ex vivo surgical assessments, this research could revolutionize early diagnosis, targeted therapies, and surgical interventions.
Research Training & Techniques
As a PhD candidate, you will gain hands-on experience in:
- Cell and stem cell biology (including tissue culture, mRNA and protein assays)
- Confocal and live-cell imaging, In vitro and ex vivo functional analysis
- Surgical simulations and ex vivo eye surgery, Organ-on-a-chip modeling for ocular systems
Funding Opportunities (Fully Funded Pathways)
Although this is officially a self-funded PhD, the University of Liverpool offers several funding routes for exceptional candidates.
1. Duncan Norman Research Scholarship
This is the most famous postgraduate award at Liverpool, covering:
- Full payment of tuition fees (UK or international rate)
- Annual cash bursary of £17,000 for living expenses
- Additional research support allowance (Only one award is available per year)
2. UK Doctoral Loan
UK Government offers a Postgraduate Doctoral Loan For UK nationals or those with settled status to upto £30,301 to help overall expenses mainly tuition and living costs.
3. External Funding
Many glaucoma and vision research charities, as well as national funding bodies such as the Medical Research Council (MRC) or the Wellcome Trust, provide competitive grants. For the availability you need to visit university website regularly.
4. Sport Liverpool Performance Programme
Designated for high-performing athlete, they can also apply for this programme, which offers training, physiotherapy, and other benefits — indirectly reducing living costs.
Eligibility Criteria
This project combines with a wide range of scientific and engineering disciplines. Preferred backgrounds include:
- Biology
- Medicine
- Biomedical sciences
- Health sciences
- Biomedical engineering
Additional requirements:
- A strong academic record (First or Upper Second-Class Honours degree, or equivalent)
- English language proficiency (IELTS 6.5 or above, if applicable aso per your nationality)
- Research interest in regenerative medicine, ophthalmology, or tissue engineering
Application Process
Applying for this PhD is a two-stage process:
Step 1 – Contact Supervisors
First you have to send your CV and cover letter to:
- Dr Carl Sheridan – carlos@liverpool.ac.uk
- Dr Neeru Vallabh
- Dr Lucy Bosworth
The cover letter will mainly include your academic background, why you’re interested in glaucoma research and the skills you have to fit the project’s aims. Also your plan or not for applying for the Duncan Norman or other funding
Step 2 – Prepare Application Documents
You may need:
- Research proposal
- Degree transcripts and certificates
- Passport details (for international applicants)
- English language certificate (if applicable)
- Personal statement
- Two academic references
Step 3 – Formal Online Application
Incase your are called for an interview and shortlisted , you’ll be invited to submit an official application via the University’s online portal.
Reasons to Choose Liverpool for Your PhD
- World-class research: Join a team at the forefront of ocular and regenerative medicine.
- Networking: Present at international conferences, publish in high-impact journals.
- Cultural life: Liverpool is ranked one of the friendliest UK cities, with affordable living costs with variety of cultures.
- Career development: More bright chances to gain transferable skills for healthcare industry.
Key Dates
- Applications open: Year-round (but funding applications have separate deadlines)
- Suggested funding application deadline: December 2025 for October 2026 start
Tuition Fees (2025–26)
- UK/ROI: £5,006/year
- International: £31,250/year
FAQs – PhD Project & Duncan Norman Research Scholarship
Q1: Is this PhD fully funded?A: No — you have to secure funding through scholarships like the Duncan Norman Research Scholarship or external grants.
Q2: Can international students apply?A: Yes, the project is open to applicants worldwide in the relevant fields.
Q3: What’s the acceptance rate for the Duncan Norman Scholarship?A: Based on historical data, it is extremely competitive — only one award per year is granted.
Q4: Is prior lab experience required?A: Experience in biomedical research is beneficial but not mandatory; full training is provided.
Q5: Can I work part-time during the PhD?A: International students may work up to 20 hours/week during term, subject to visa regulations.
How to Apply
📌 Email supervisors first with your CV & cover letter: carlos@liverpool.ac.uk
📌 Prepare all documents in advance, especially your research proposal.
📌 Apply for funding early — many scholarship deadlines close months before the PhD start date.
Final Thoughts
This PhD at the University of Liverpool provides the opportunity to be part of life-altering research to combat glaucoma. With the potential for full funding, state-of-the-art training, and a nurturing academic community, it’s not often a UK and international student can have such an opportunity to pursue vision science and regenerative medicine.
You can check University official page for further course details and other scholarships provided by university from time to time.