Do you want to make a real impact in pharmaceutical innovation and healthcare research?
University College Cork (UCC), in partnership with Eli Lilly, is offering two prestigious fully funded PhD scholarships in Future Pharmaceuticals.
These programs provide the chance to work with world-class supervisors, cutting-edge research facilities, and direct collaboration with one of the world’s leading pharmaceutical companies.
Scholarship Opportunities at UCC
PhD in Process Analytical Technology (PAT)
- Supervisor: Prof. Elena Matsa
- Focus: Creating innovative tools for monitoring and control of pharmaceutical production in real time.
- Why it matters: PAT guarantees quality, safety, and efficiency in drug production. It’s a vital field since the industry is moving towards smart manufacturing and Industry 4.0 in pharma.
Apply here: PhD in Process Analytical Technology
PhD in Medicinal Chemistry
- Supervisor: Dr. Florence McCarthy
- Focus: Synthesis and development of new drug molecules with therapeutic interest.
- Why it matters: Medicinal Chemistry underpins the discovery of medicines. Students in this program make a direct contribution to the development of future therapies.
Apply here: PhD in Medicinal Chemistry
Why Choose University College Cork?
- Global Ranking: UCC is ranked among the top 2% of universities worldwide.
- Industry Collaboration: Direct partnership with Eli Lilly, a world leader in pharmaceuticals.
- Research Excellence: Access to state-of-the-art labs, interdisciplinary teams, and a dynamic academic community.
- Career Pathways: Graduates are highly employable in pharma, biotech, and academic research.
Who Should Apply?
These scholarships are ideal for:
- Those seeking international career opportunities in the pharmaceutical and biotech sectors.
- Students with backgrounds in chemistry, pharmaceutical sciences, biotechnology, or related fields.
- Applicants motivated to work on drug discovery, development, and production technologies.
Application Timeline
- Closing Date: Friday, 26 September 2025
How to Apply:
- Choose Your Program – PAT or Medicinal Chemistry
- Prepare Documents – Transcripts, CV, research statement, and references
- Submit Application – via the official UCC portal (links above)
- Interview – Shortlisted candidates may be invited for interviews
- Offer & Funding Confirmation – Successful candidates will receive full details of the scholarship package
Why Eli Lilly’s Support Matters
Eli Lilly is a global leader in pharmaceuticals, known for breakthroughs in oncology, diabetes, immunology, and neuroscience. Their support guarantees:
- Research aligned with real-world industry needs
- Networking opportunities with industry experts
- A strong career launchpad into the global pharma workforce
Career Opportunities After Graduation
Graduates of these PhDs can pursue roles such as:
- Process Development Scientist
- Medicinal Chemist / Drug Designer
- Pharmaceutical R&D Specialist
- Regulatory Affairs Scientist
- Academic Researcher / Lecturer
With Ireland hosting top pharmaceutical companies like Pfizer, Novartis, MSD, Johnson & Johnson, and Eli Lilly, UCC graduates benefit from exceptional career prospects.
Since Ireland is recognized as a global pharma hub (home to Pfizer, Novartis, MSD, Johnson & Johnson, and Eli Lilly), graduates are exposed to world-class career opportunities.
Skills Developed Beyond the PhD
In addition to tuition and living expenses, these scholarships help develop essential skills, including:
- Entrepreneurship Training for biotech start-up enthusiasts
- Digital Literacy & Data Analysis in PAT
- Synthetic Chemistry & Drug Design in Medicinal Chemistry
- Communication & Publication skills via conferences and journals
Student Success Story – Lessons from UCC Alumni
Maria, a graduate from UCC in Pharmaceutical Chemistry, landed a position at Pfizer upon completion of her PhD in drug synthesis. Her publications and industry collaborations provided a window of international opportunities.
Arjun, a researcher in PAT at UCC, worked on a project in real-time process monitoring that was subsequently taken up by a leading biotech firm. He now heads a team in advanced manufacturing.
These stories illustrate the potential for a UCC PhD to serve as a springboard to international success.
FAQs regarding Eli Lilly PhD Scholarships
Q1. Is the scholarship fully funded?
Yes. It covers tuition, research costs, and a living allowance.
Q2. Do I need prior research experience?
Not essential, but academic excellence and strong motivation are highly valued.
Q3. Can international students apply?
Yes. The scholarships are open to both Irish and overseas applicants.
Q4. What is the deadline?
Friday, 26 September 2025
Q5. Where can I apply?
- PAT: Apply Here
- Medicinal Chemistry: Apply Here
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