This four-year structured D.Phil. (PhD) programme trains students in the methodologies required to understand the molecular basis of complex disease. As a structured programme, it consists of a one-year modular course followed by a three-year doctoral research project, which can take place in any of the participating departments at the University. The course takes advantage of Oxford’s strengths in genetics, genomic medicine and statistics; disciplines that will set the medical research agenda of the 21st Century. Applicants with either or both biological and quantitative backgrounds are encouraged to apply. There is no requirement for previous training in quantitative methods for those candidates with a biological background, or vice-versa.