The PhD is a globally recognised postgraduate research degree and the highest level of degree you can achieve. PhD students are critical, curious, creative thinkers who undertake original research over at least 3 years. The University of Auckland PhD is a globally recognised postgraduate research degree, available in over 100 different subjects. Candidates will undertake independent and original research, supervised by academic experts and research leaders. During your doctoral studies, you will have opportunities to expand and develop your personal, professional and academic skills. Our doctoral candidates present their work at local and international conferences, and are encouraged to network and collaborate with a wide range of experts in their research field. All of our doctoral policies and guidelines governing PhD study, including the PhD statute, are available in Doctoral policies and guidelines. If you are looking for PhD study in a subject not listed here, it may be available under a different title.The Liggins Institute is one of the world’s leading centres for research on fetal and child health, nutrition, development and the developmental origins of adult disease, epigenetics and translational science. Study with us and you’ll help translate scientific discoveries into therapies that help people manage major health problems of the 21st century. Much of the Institute’s research builds on ways to prevent preterm birth and improve the life-long health of babies born prematurely or with altered growth before birth. Many of our academic staff are practising clinicians with expertise ranging from paediatrics to physiology. Others are internationally-recognised experts in their field. As a doctoral student at the Liggins Institute you’ll gain an internationally recognised qualification, excellent research skills and the knowledge to work in an important area of medical research that has the potential to change the long-term health outcomes of generations to come.