As well as belonging to a department, graduate students in Oxford are admitted to a college, which provides a broader academic environment, as well as a domestic and social centre. Choice of college is up to individuals, who may have particular interests associated with individual colleges. The department is always happy to provide guidance on colleges, and Professor Richard Vaughan-Jones, the member of staff acting as Graduate Studies Adviser, welcomes enquiries about any aspect of graduate work. New graduate students sometimes find it helpful to attend some of these lecture series, to improve their specialised knowledge in particular areas. There are further opportunities to take other courses in related areas throughout the life sciences.
Funding is always a question raised by potential graduate students.
There are certain studentships and bursaries available in Oxford for both local and overseas candidates, and many of our overseas students have been successful in gaining prestigious scolarships in their country of origin. A number of earmarked MRC studentships are available for the new Neuroscience M.Sc. Finally, an increasing number of students are employed as research assistants on grants, taking advantage of the reduced fees scheme available to employees. The department is again fortunate to benefit from a variety of short to long term research visitors, who range from very distinguished scientists, supported on named visiting professorships, to scientists starting out on their research careers. Certain opportunities for financial support exist within the colleges and the university and there are a number of specific fellowships for scientists associated with particular countries and research topics.