About the Project
Midlands Integrative Biosciences Training Partnership
The Midlands Integrative Biosciences Training Partnership (MIBTP) is a BBSRC funded Doctoral Training Partnership between Coventry University, the University of Warwick, the University of Birmingham, the University of Leicester, Aston University and Harper Adams University.
Students from a wide diversity of academic backgrounds are encouraged to apply.
Projects are available for excellent students in our Research Centre for Discoveries in Life Sciences | Coventry University
Project Outline
Why do some mammals live for just a few years, while others survive for decades? Lifespan varies enormously across mammals, yet the genomic foundations of this variation remain poorly understood. This project will use comparative genomics to uncover the molecular signatures associated with longevity, drawing on the rapidly expanding collection of high-quality mammalian genomes.
The research will integrate large-scale genome data with species-specific lifespan records to identify patterns of sequence conservation, gene family evolution, and regulatory features that correlate with variation in lifespan. Particular emphasis will be placed on genomic elements previously implicated in ageing (e.g. DNA repair, immune function, and metabolic pathways), but the project will also explore novel features using data-driven discovery.
A key component will be the development and application of machine learning approaches, from interpretable models to deep learning, to detect sequence motifs and combinations of motifs that distinguish long-lived from short-lived species. These methods will allow both simple patterns and higher-order interactions in the genome to be linked to lifespan evolution. An experimental part of the project will involve the genetic testing of the identified genomic patterns linked to longevity.
The project provides training in evolutionary genomics, machine learning, and comparative methods, offering the opportunity to address a major open question in biology: the genomic basis of lifespan. The findings will not only advance our understanding of ageing and mammalian diversity, but may also shed light on the molecular mechanisms that promote health and longevity.
Studentship details
As an MIBTP Scholar you will join a comprehensive Training Programme that runs concurrently with your PhD.
- Full tuition fees (at UK rate)*
- A tax free annual stipend (currently £21,805 in academic year 2026-27)
- A travel/conference budget
- A generous consumables budget
- Use of a MacBook Pro for the duration of the programme.
*Coventry University will fund the difference between the UK tuition fee rate and the international tuition fee rate.
Entry criteria
- Minimum of a 2:1 first degree in a relevant discipline/subject area with a minimum 60% mark in the project element or equivalent with a minimum 60% overall module average
- An adequate proficiency in English must be demonstrated by applicants whose first language is not English. The general requirement is a minimum overall IELTS Academic score of 7.0 with a minimum of 6.5 in each of the four sections, or the TOEFL iBT test with a minimum overall score of 95 with a minimum of 21 in each of the four sections.
More information
In order to apply for a Midlands Integrative Biosciences Training Partnership PhD you must:
Check your eligibility.
- Complete the ED&I Form, which also acts as an expression of interest in MIBTP and helps us monitor our ED&I commitments at every step of the application process
- Our academic directors and the shortlisting panel do not have access to the EDI form and will not see your EDI responses
- Complete an Application
- Review the MIBTP Data Privacy Midlands Integrative Biosciences Training Partnership Policy link to understand how we process your personal data.
To find out more information, contact Katie.Choudhry@coventry.ac.uk for administrative questions.
Visit the Frequently Asked Questions page
Funding Notes
Tuition Fees and stipend
