cover letter for phd application in biotechnology

• Resume Writing
• Resume Examples
• Cover Letter
• Remote Work
• Famous Resumes
• Try Kickresume

Cover Letter for PhD Application: Guide for Writing One & Example From a Real PhD Student

• Klara Cervenanska , 
• Updated March 27, 2023 9 min read

When applying for a PhD research position, you usually need to submit certain documents, including an academic CV and a cover letter for PhD application .

A PhD cover letter, also referred to as an academic cover letter, should be carefully crafted, well-formatted, and contain specific sections.

We'll show you how to do exactly that, along with a sample of an academic cover letter from a real person admitted to a PhD program at Lyon University in France.

And if you're not sure how to go about writing your PhD CV, check out this article: CV for PhD Application: How to Write One Like a True Scholar (+CV Example) .

Table of Contents

Click on a section to skip

What is an academic cover letter?

What to include in a cover letter for phd application, how to write a cover letter for phd application, how to format an academic cover letter, phd cover letter sample.

An academic cover letter is a document that PhD candidates submit alongside their academic CV when applying for a PhD. 

Essentially, it's a cover letter for a PhD application.

It's not exactly the same as your regular business cover letter. Nor is it the same as a personal statement or a motivation letter .

The purpose of a cover letter for PhD application is to explain to the reader, who's likely a researcher or a professor, what you can contribute to their institution and/or field.

Moreover, in a PhD application cover letter, you should explain why you're a good match for the research position on the program.

Differences between academic cover letter and business cover letter

Both these documents serve different purposes and people use them in different settings:

• Academic cover letter is used when applying for positions in academia — most often for a PhD. More emphasis should be on education, research background and scholarly accomplishments. Moreover, it should explain what your contribution to the institution or field could be. It should also point the reader to your academic CV.
• Regular (business) cover letter is normally used when applying for any kind of job . Hence, more emphasis should be on skills and past experience while being tailored to a specific job position. You should also explain why you're a good fit for the position at the given company. It should point the reader to your resume.

There are also other documents people often mistake for an academic cover letter. These include:

• Motivation letter is especially relevant for fresh graduates when applying to a university, a non-profit organization, or voluntary work. A motivation letter focuses more on your interests and motives for applying.
• Personal statement. Also used in an academic setting. It's always written by an applicant, often a prospective student, applying to college, university, or graduate school. You explain why you've chosen a particular course and why you'd be good at it. Other names include a statement of purpose or a letter of intent .

Like every cover letter, an academic one also needs to include specific elements and content sections. These are:

• Header. Here, provide your contact information, such as your name, address, phone number, and email in the header of the document.
• Formal salutation. In an official letter like this one, you should address the reader in a professional and formal way. If you know who'll be reading your cover letter, go with Dear Dr. [Surname] or Dear Professor [Surname] . If you don't, go with Dear Sir/Madam .
• The specific PhD program or position. Clearly state in your letter which research position you're applying for or the name of the PhD program. A cover letter is usually read before a CV, so you need to make sure everything is clear.
• Your motivation. Explain why you're interested in the specific PhD position — it's one of the key elements you should include.
• Your academic background. Now, we don't mean you should list in detail every single university course you ever took. Instead, focus on the most relevant course for the PhD and describe in detail what you learned, any projects you worked on, why it was interesting (and optionally, what knowledge gap you identified). In this way, you also show a certain level of understanding of the field.
• Your ambition. Briefly mention what your ambitions, intentions, and plans are regarding your contribution to the field when securing your PhD position. How is your research going to enrich the field? How will the institution benefit from it?
• Conclusion. Keep the conclusion short. Contrary to a regular cover letter ending , there's no place for reiterating everything here. Simply thank the reader for your consideration and prompt them to read your academic CV.
• Formal sign-off. Just pick from the usual: Sincerely, Respectfully, Regards... Then throw in your full name in the following line.

And that's all you need to include!

Now, let's take a look at how to write your cover letter step-by-step.

Applying for a PhD will be a lot less stressful if you follow these tips on how to write a cover letter for a research position:

Consider researching the background of the organization, department, ongoing research projects, and their past and current projects. All that before you start writing your cover letter. Knowing these things will help you tailor your letter to the specific PhD opening.

Before you actually start writing, try to sit down and take a moment to think first. Assess how your past experiences helped you prepare for the PhD position and scribble down those that are most relevant and significant for the specific program. These include any research experiences, research projects, courses, or internships.

In the first few sentences of your letter, you need to convey some basic information about yourself and what specific position you're applying for. The opening should also state firmly why you're a strong candidate for the position/program, by using a persuasive and convincing wording. Here's an example: "As an MChem Chemistry graduate with a narrow focus on the sustainable synthesis of biologically active molecules from the University of Dundee, I am excited to apply to a "Synthesis Of Small Molecule Inhibitors Using Enzymes" PhD programme at an institution with such a strong foundation and numerous research groups in this field."

This is the place where you may explore more extensively on the educational journey that brought you here. Set the foundation for demonstrating how your Master's degree and research experience seamlessly translate into the next phase — the PhD program. Emphasize how your thesis contributes to the field's body of knowledge. Mention any other publications that support your thesis. And, if you can, identify any knowledge gaps or topics that can be explored further.

This paragraph provides the opportunity to neatly tie in together everything the reader has learned about you so far. You can show how your previous experience, coupled with what you'll learn during the PhD program, will come together to produce something novel to enrich the field. First, identify the courses or topics within the PhD program that interest you the most and how they relate to you developing your research further. Second, introduce your future research aspirations and goals. Third, point out how this future work will enrich the field and what will the intellectual merit be.

When ending your PhD cover letter, briefly refer your reader to your academic CV and encourage them to examine all of the remaining projects, courses, publications, or references . Finally, thank the reader for their time and consideration and let them know you look forward to hearing from them. Sign off.

Put the letter in a drawer and don't think about it for a day or two. Then, when you read it again, you'll have a fresh pair of eyes to see the cover letter in a new light. Maybe you decide some things are redundant, or you think of something that's more relevant. Or you know, find a typo here and there.

Just like an academic cover letter needs to contain certain content components, the formatting should also align with the structural expectations for this type of document.

How long should a cover letter be? How to finish a cover letter? And what about the cover letter font and spacing?

Here's a recommended academic cover letter format:

• Length. While STEM PhD candidates should aim for half a page to one page, humanities candidates can do 1–2 pages.
• Font. Use one of the classics: Times New Roman, Calibri, or Arial. Just no Comic Sans, we beg you. Keep the size between 10–12 points. Also remember to keep the text clean — no underlining, no bolding, and no color. However, you can use italics if appropriate.
• Spacing. Cover letter spacing isn't complicated. Just single-space your text, make sure there's a space between each paragraph, and leave a space between the concluding paragraph and your formal sign-off.
• Margins. The only rule here is that the margins on your cover letter should match those on your CV.
• Consistence with your CV. Your academic cover letter should match your academic CV in all formatting aspects — including the cover letter font and spacing. For example, Kickresume lets you choose a matching template for your CV and your cover letter, so no need to worry about this.

If the institution provided any instructions for formatting your academic cover letter, don’t get creative and follow their guidelines.

Finally, to help you tie everything we talked about together, here's a cover letter sample from a real person admitted to a PhD program at Lyon University in France.

These things ensured Herrera's cover letter was successful:

• She clearly states her motivation in the opening. In the first two paragraphs, Herrera introduces herself and her motivation to apply for the given PhD program.
• She describes educational and research background thoroughly. The main body of the letter is dedicated to describing Herrera's educational background, research projects, internships, and skills acquired throughout the way.
• She presents research aspirations in the letter. Herrera writes: "I have a history of proven results and profound findings. Given opportunity, I’m confident in my abilities to earn similar ground-breaking results while being part of your team."

Even though this example lacks some of the key elements, such as mentioning the specific PhD program or identifying the topics within the PhD program that interest her the most, this PhD cover letter still managed to impress the University of Lyon.

Lyon University PhD Student Cover Letter Sample

Klara graduated from the University of St Andrews in Scotland. After having written resumes for many of her fellow students, she began writing full-time for Kickresume. Klara is our go-to person for all things related to student or 'no experience resumes'. At the same time, she has written some of the most popular resume advice articles on this blog. Her pieces were featured in multiple CNBC articles. When she's not writing, you'll probably find her chasing dogs or people-watching while sipping on a cup of coffee.

Related Posts

How to write a cover letter using chatgpt in 7 steps (+prompt template).

• 11 min read

How to Address a Cover Letter Without a Name? Use These 5 Salutations

Share this article, join our newsletter.

Every month, we’ll send you resume advice, job search tips, career hacks and more in pithy, bite-sized chunks. Sounds good?

How to Write a Biotechnology Cover Letter (With Example)

This guide walks you through writing an effective biotechnology cover letter. Discover essential tips for presenting your skills and accomplishments, and see a practical example to help you get started.

A cover letter is a key part of applying for a job in biotechnology. It's your chance to show why you're a good fit for the position and make a strong first impression. Unlike a resume, which lists your skills and experience, a cover letter lets you explain why you're excited about the job and how your background matches what the company needs.

In the biotechnology field, cover letters are especially important. This industry values both technical knowledge and the ability to communicate clearly. Your cover letter can show that you have both of these skills. It's a place where you can highlight your understanding of biotechnology concepts and your enthusiasm for the field.

Writing a good cover letter takes time and effort, but it's worth it. A well-written letter can help you stand out from other applicants and increase your chances of getting an interview. This article will guide you through the process of writing a strong biotechnology cover letter. We'll cover what to include, how to structure your letter, and provide an example to help you get started.

Remember, your cover letter is often the first thing a potential employer will read about you. It's your opportunity to make a good impression and show why you're the right person for the job. By following the tips in this article, you'll be well on your way to creating a cover letter that gets noticed in the biotechnology industry.

Biotechnology Cover Letter Example

Dear Ryan Wright,

I am writing to express my strong interest in the Biotechnology position at Genentech. As a passionate and dedicated professional in the field of biotechnology, I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your innovative team and help drive advancements in this critical industry.

Throughout my career, I have developed a deep understanding of biotechnological principles and techniques, coupled with a strong foundation in molecular biology, genetics, and biochemistry. My experience has honed my skills in areas such as recombinant DNA technology, protein engineering, and cell culture techniques, which I believe align well with Genentech's focus on developing groundbreaking therapies.

What particularly draws me to Genentech is your company's commitment to pushing the boundaries of scientific discovery and translating research into life-changing medicines. Your recent breakthroughs in targeted cancer therapies and innovative approaches to treating neurological disorders are truly inspiring. I am eager to contribute my expertise and collaborate with your world-class team to further these important initiatives.

In addition to my technical skills, I bring a proven track record of successfully managing complex projects, fostering cross-functional collaboration, and adapting quickly to new technologies and methodologies. I am confident that my ability to think critically, solve problems creatively, and communicate effectively would make me a valuable asset to your organization.

I am particularly impressed by Genentech's dedication to sustainability and ethical practices in biotechnology. Your commitment to reducing environmental impact and ensuring responsible use of genetic engineering resonates strongly with my personal values and professional goals.

Thank you for considering my application. I am excited about the prospect of joining the Genentech team and contributing to your mission of using science to improve lives. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my skills and enthusiasm can benefit your organization.

Benjamin Ryan

How to Write & Format a Cover Letter Header

The header of your biotechnology cover letter sets the tone for your application and provides essential contact information. A professional and well-formatted header ensures your letter makes a strong first impression and allows potential employers to easily reach you.

Key Elements of a Cover Letter Header

• Your full name
• Professional email address
• Phone number
• City and state of residence
• LinkedIn profile (optional)

Formatting Tips

• Use a clear, readable font
• Align the header to the left or center
• Include a space between your header and the date

Date and Employer's Information

Below your header, add the current date followed by the employer's details:

• Hiring manager's name and title
• Company name
• Company address

By crafting a concise and professional header, you demonstrate attention to detail and make it easy for recruiters to contact you, increasing your chances of securing an interview in the competitive biotechnology field.

Greeting Your Potential Employer

After crafting a professional header, the next crucial element of your biotechnology cover letter is the greeting. This section sets the tone for your letter and demonstrates your attention to detail and professionalism.

Research the recipient

Whenever possible, address your letter to a specific person. Take the time to research the company and identify the hiring manager or relevant department head. This personal touch shows initiative and genuine interest in the position.

Use a formal salutation

Begin with a formal salutation such as "Dear" followed by the recipient's title and last name. For example, "Dear Dr. Smith" or "Dear Ms. Johnson." If you're unsure about the recipient's gender, use their full name: "Dear Alex Thompson."

Default options

If you cannot find a specific name, use a general greeting that reflects the company culture. Options include "Dear Hiring Manager," "Dear Biotechnology Team," or "Dear Selection Committee." Avoid outdated salutations like "To Whom It May Concern."

Double-check for accuracy

Ensure you've spelled the recipient's name correctly and used the appropriate title. A mistake here could create a negative first impression, potentially affecting your application's success.

By crafting a thoughtful and accurate greeting, you demonstrate your professionalism and attention to detail, setting a positive tone for the rest of your biotechnology cover letter.

Introducing Yourself in a Cover Letter

The opening paragraph of your biotechnology cover letter is crucial for making a strong first impression. This section should immediately grab the reader's attention and convey your enthusiasm for the position and company.

To craft an effective introduction, begin by stating the specific position you're applying for and how you learned about it. This demonstrates your attention to detail and shows that you've done your research. Next, briefly highlight your most relevant qualifications or experiences that make you an ideal candidate for the role.

Consider mentioning a recent accomplishment or breakthrough in the company's field of research that excites you. This showcases your industry knowledge and genuine interest in the organization's work. Additionally, you can touch on why you're passionate about biotechnology and how your skills align with the company's mission or goals.

Keep your introduction concise and engaging, aiming for 3-4 sentences that entice the reader to continue. Remember, the goal is to pique the hiring manager's interest and make them want to learn more about you as a potential asset to their team.

By crafting a strong introduction, you set the stage for the rest of your cover letter and increase your chances of standing out in a competitive field like biotechnology.

Strong Example

Dear Hiring Manager,

As a recent graduate with a Master's degree in Biotechnology from Stanford University, I am excited to apply for the Research Associate position at Genentech. My passion for innovative gene therapy techniques and hands-on experience with CRISPR-Cas9 technology align perfectly with your company's groundbreaking work in genetic engineering. During my internship at Vertex Pharmaceuticals, I contributed to a project that improved gene delivery efficiency by 30%, igniting my enthusiasm to push the boundaries of biotechnology further.

Why is this a strong example?

This is a strong cover letter introduction for several reasons. First, it immediately establishes the candidate's relevant educational background and specific field of study. The mention of a Master's degree from a prestigious institution like Stanford adds credibility. Second, it demonstrates knowledge of the company by mentioning Genentech and aligning the candidate's experience with the company's work. Third, it highlights specific, relevant skills (CRISPR-Cas9) that are highly valued in the biotechnology field. Fourth, it quantifies a significant achievement (30% improvement in gene delivery efficiency) from a previous internship, showcasing practical experience and results. Finally, the introduction conveys enthusiasm and passion for the field, which is crucial in a competitive industry like biotechnology. This combination of qualifications, specific skills, achievements, and genuine interest makes for a compelling opening that would likely capture the reader's attention.

Weak Example

Dear Sir/Madam,

I am writing to apply for any open positions at your biotechnology company. I recently graduated with a degree in biology and I think I would be a good fit for your team. I have always been interested in science and I believe I could contribute to your company's success.

Why is this a weak example?

This is a weak cover letter introduction for several reasons. First, it's generic and doesn't address a specific position or company, which shows a lack of research and effort. The greeting 'Dear Sir/Madam' is impersonal and outdated. The applicant doesn't mention the company's name or any specific projects or achievements, demonstrating a lack of genuine interest. The statement about 'always being interested in science' is vague and doesn't highlight any specific skills or experiences relevant to biotechnology. Additionally, the language used is not confident or persuasive, using phrases like 'I think' instead of more assertive statements. Overall, this introduction fails to grab the reader's attention, showcase the applicant's qualifications, or demonstrate a clear understanding of the company and industry.

Writing the Body of Your Cover Letter

The body of your biotechnology cover letter is where you can showcase your relevant skills, experiences, and achievements. This section should demonstrate your value to the potential employer and explain why you're an ideal candidate for the position.

Highlight Relevant Skills and Experience

Focus on skills and experiences that directly relate to the job description. Mention specific laboratory techniques, research methodologies, or technologies you've worked with that are relevant to the role.

Demonstrate Your Knowledge

Show your understanding of current trends and challenges in biotechnology. This could include mentioning recent developments in the field or discussing how your research aligns with the company's goals.

Quantify Your Achievements

Use concrete examples and metrics to illustrate your accomplishments. For instance, you might mention publications, patents, or successful project outcomes you've contributed to.

Show Enthusiasm

Express your passion for biotechnology and your eagerness to contribute to the company's mission. Explain why you're interested in this particular role and organization.

Connect Your Background to the Position

Clearly explain how your background makes you a strong fit for the specific position. Draw connections between your past experiences and the requirements of the job.

Keep It Concise

While it's important to provide detail, remember to keep each paragraph focused and concise. Aim for 3-4 paragraphs in the body of your letter, each highlighting a different aspect of your qualifications.

As a recent graduate with a Master's degree in Biotechnology from Stanford University, I am excited to apply for the Research Associate position at Genentech. During my academic career, I have gained extensive experience in gene editing techniques, particularly CRISPR-Cas9, and have successfully completed a thesis project on developing targeted therapies for rare genetic disorders. This aligns perfectly with Genentech's groundbreaking work in personalized medicine and genetic engineering.

In my internship at Vertex Pharmaceuticals, I contributed to a team working on novel drug delivery systems, where I honed my skills in cell culture, protein purification, and flow cytometry. This experience not only enhanced my technical abilities but also taught me the importance of collaboration and innovation in a fast-paced industry environment.

I am particularly drawn to Genentech's commitment to pushing the boundaries of biotechnology and its focus on translating scientific discoveries into life-changing treatments. Your recent breakthroughs in cancer immunotherapy are truly inspiring, and I am eager to contribute my skills and passion to your ongoing research initiatives.

This is a strong example of a cover letter body for several reasons. First, it immediately establishes the candidate's relevant educational background and specialization in Biotechnology. The mention of specific techniques like CRISPR-Cas9 and a thesis project on targeted therapies demonstrates in-depth knowledge and hands-on experience in areas crucial to the biotech industry.

Secondly, the letter connects the candidate's experience to the company's work, showing that they have done their research on Genentech and understand its focus on personalized medicine and genetic engineering. This demonstrates genuine interest and alignment with the company's goals.

The paragraph about the internship at Vertex Pharmaceuticals provides concrete examples of technical skills and industry experience, which are highly valuable in a research position. It also touches on soft skills like collaboration, which are important in team-based research environments.

Finally, the closing paragraph shows enthusiasm for Genentech specifically, mentioning their work in cancer immunotherapy. This personalizes the letter and shows that the candidate is not just looking for any job, but is specifically interested in contributing to Genentech's mission.

Overall, this cover letter body effectively combines relevant experience, technical knowledge, and genuine interest in the company, making it a strong example for a Biotechnology position.

I am writing to apply for the Biotechnology Research Assistant position at your company. I have a degree in Biology and I think I would be a good fit for this role. I have some lab experience from my college classes and I'm a quick learner. I'm passionate about science and would love to work for your company. Please consider me for this position.

This is a weak example for several reasons. Firstly, it lacks specificity and fails to demonstrate in-depth knowledge of the company or the biotechnology field. The candidate doesn't mention any particular achievements, skills, or experiences that directly relate to the position. The language used is generic and doesn't convey enthusiasm or a unique value proposition. Additionally, the example doesn't highlight any specific biotechnology techniques or relevant research experience. It also fails to explain how the candidate's skills would benefit the company or contribute to ongoing projects. Overall, this cover letter body is too vague and doesn't effectively sell the candidate's qualifications for a biotechnology position.

How to Close Your Cover Letter

To conclude your biotechnology cover letter effectively, you'll need a strong closing that leaves a lasting impression. This final section should reiterate your enthusiasm for the position, summarize your key qualifications, and prompt the reader to take action.

Begin your closing paragraph by expressing your excitement about the opportunity to contribute to the company's goals. Briefly restate why you believe you're an excellent fit for the role, highlighting one or two of your most relevant skills or experiences.

Next, indicate your readiness for the next steps in the hiring process. This could include mentioning your availability for an interview or expressing your eagerness to discuss how you can contribute to the organization's success.

Finally, thank the reader for their time and consideration. Use a professional sign-off such as "Sincerely" or "Best regards," followed by your full name.

Remember to proofread your entire cover letter carefully, paying special attention to the closing section. A polished, error-free conclusion will reinforce your professionalism and attention to detail, qualities highly valued in the biotechnology industry.

Key elements of a strong cover letter closing

• Reiterate enthusiasm for the position
• Summarize key qualifications
• Express readiness for next steps
• Thank the reader
• Use a professional sign-off

By crafting a compelling closing, you'll leave the hiring manager with a positive final impression, increasing your chances of securing an interview and ultimately landing your desired biotechnology position.

Thank you for considering my application. I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to XYZ Biotech's groundbreaking work in gene therapy. My passion for advancing medical science, combined with my expertise in CRISPR technology and cell culture techniques, makes me confident that I can make significant contributions to your team. I look forward to the possibility of discussing how my skills and experience align with your company's innovative projects. Please feel free to contact me at your convenience to arrange an interview.

This is a strong cover letter closing for several reasons. First, it expresses genuine enthusiasm for the specific company and its work, mentioning 'XYZ Biotech' and 'gene therapy'. This shows the applicant has done their research and is truly interested in the position. Second, it highlights key skills relevant to the biotechnology field, such as CRISPR technology and cell culture techniques, reinforcing the applicant's qualifications. Third, it confidently states the value the applicant can bring to the team, demonstrating self-assurance without being arrogant. Finally, it includes a clear call-to-action, inviting the employer to arrange an interview, which shows initiative and eagerness to move forward in the process. The tone is professional yet passionate, which is appropriate for a biotechnology position where both technical skills and genuine interest in the field are crucial.

I hope you will consider me for this position. Thank you for your time and I look forward to hearing from you soon. Have a great day!

Sincerely, John Smith

This closing is weak for a Biotechnology cover letter for several reasons. First, it lacks enthusiasm and passion for the field, which is crucial in a competitive industry like Biotechnology. The language is generic and could be used for any job application, failing to demonstrate specific interest in the company or position. The phrase 'I hope you will consider me' comes across as passive and uncertain, rather than confident in one's qualifications. Additionally, the closing fails to reiterate key qualifications or express how the candidate could contribute to the company's goals. The casual 'Have a great day!' is inappropriate for a professional cover letter, especially in a scientific field. Overall, this closing misses the opportunity to make a lasting impression and reinforce the candidate's suitability for the role.

Cover Letter FAQs for Biotechnology

What is the ideal format and length for a biotechnology cover letter.

A biotechnology cover letter should typically be one page long, consisting of 3-4 paragraphs. Use a professional business letter format with your contact information at the top, followed by the date and the employer's details. Begin with a strong opening paragraph, elaborate on your relevant skills and experiences in the body, and conclude with a call to action. Use a clean, readable font like Arial or Calibri, 11-12 point size, with 1-inch margins.

What key elements should I include in a biotechnology cover letter?

Your biotechnology cover letter should include: 1) A compelling opening that grabs attention and states the position you're applying for, 2) Highlights of your relevant skills, experiences, and achievements in biotechnology, 3) Specific examples of how your background aligns with the job requirements, 4) Mention of any relevant research, publications, or projects, 5) Your knowledge of the company and why you're interested in the role, and 6) A strong closing paragraph with a call to action.

How can I make my biotechnology cover letter stand out?

To make your biotechnology cover letter stand out: 1) Tailor it specifically to the job and company, 2) Highlight your unique skills and experiences relevant to biotechnology, 3) Use specific examples and quantifiable achievements, 4) Demonstrate your knowledge of current biotechnology trends and challenges, 5) Showcase any relevant research or publications, 6) Use industry-specific keywords, and 7) Proofread carefully to ensure it's error-free and professionally written.

Should I mention my technical skills in a biotechnology cover letter?

Yes, mentioning relevant technical skills in your biotechnology cover letter is crucial. Highlight skills such as specific laboratory techniques, experience with biotechnology equipment, proficiency in bioinformatics tools, or knowledge of regulatory compliance. However, don't just list skills; provide context by briefly explaining how you've applied these skills in past roles or projects. This demonstrates both your technical proficiency and your ability to use these skills effectively in a professional setting.

PHD Application cover letter examples

Try the CV builder 

As the highest postgraduate qualification you can achieve, it’s no wonder that most PhD programs require a cover letter as part of the application process.

So, if you’re hoping to complete your doctorate, you need to brush up on your writing skills and prove why you deserve a place in the program.

To help you do that, we’ve put together this comprehensive guide, complete with PhD cover letter examples to support your application.

CV templates 

PHD Application cover letter example 1

Build your CV now 

PHD Application cover letter example 2

PHD Application cover letter example 3

The example cover letters here should give you a good general idea on how your PHD Application cover letter should be formatted and written.

The rest of this guide gives more specific guidance on how to create your own cover letter in this format, and even includes some templates you can copy and paste.

How to write a PHD Application cover letter

A simple step-by-step guide to writing your very own winning cover letter.

Write your cover letter in the body of an email/message

When writing your PHD Application cover letter, it’s best to type the content into the body of your email (or the job site messaging system) and not to attach the cover letter as a separate document.

This ensures that your cover letter gets seen as soon as a recruiter or employer opens your message.

If you attach the cover letter as a document, you’re making the reader go through an unnecessary step of opening the document before reading it.

If it’s in the body of the message itself, it will be seen instantly, which hugely increases the chances of it being read.

Start with a friendly greeting

Start you cover letter with a greeting that is professional but friendly.

This will build rapport with the recruiter whilst showing your professionalism.

• Hi, hope you’re well
• Hi [insert recruiter name]
• Hi [insert department/team name]

Avoid overly formal greetings like “Dear sir/madam ” unless applying to very traditional companies.

How to find the contact’s name?

Addressing the recruitment contact by name is an excellent way to start building a strong relationship. If it is not listed in the job advert, try these methods to find it.

• Check out the company website and look at their  About page. If you see a hiring manager, HR person or internal recruiter, use their name. You could also try to figure out who would be your manager in the role and use their name.
• Head to LinkedIn , search for the company and scan through the list of employees. Most professionals are on LinkedIn these days, so this is a good bet.

Identify the role you are applying for

Once you’ve opened up the cover letter with a warm greeting to start building a relationship, it is time to identify which role you want to apply for.

Recruiters are often managing multiple vacancies, so you need to ensure you apply to the correct one.

Be very specific and use a reference number if you can find one.

• I am interested in applying for the position of *specialist field PHD Applicant* with your company.
• I would like to apply for the role of Sales assistant (Ref: 406f57393)
• I would like to express my interest in the customer service vacancy within your retail department
• I saw your advert for a junior project manager on Reed and would like to apply for the role.

See also: CV examples – how to write a CV – CV profiles

Highlight your suitability

The main purpose of your cover letter is to excite recruiters and make them eager to open your CV. And you achieve this by quickly demonstrating your suitability to the job you are applying for.

Take a look at the job adverts you are applying for, and make note of the most important skills being asked for.

Then, when you write your cover letter, make your suitability the focal point.

Explain how you meet the candidate requirements fully, and why you are so well suited to carry out the job.

This will give recruiters all the encouragement they need to open your CV and consider your application.

Keep it short and sharp

A good cover letter is short and sharp, getting to the point quickly with just enough information to grab the attention of recruiters.

Ideally your cover letter should be around 4-8 sentences long – anything longer will risk losing the attention of time-strapped recruiters and hiring managers .

Essentially you need to include just enough information to persuade the reader to open up your CV, where the in-depth details will sit.

Sign off professionally

To round of your CV, you should sign off with a professional signature.

This will give your cover letter a slick appearance and also give the recruiter all of the necessary contact information they need to get in touch with you.

The information to add should include:

• A friendly sign off – e.g. “Kindest regards”
• Your full name
• Phone number (one you can answer quickly)
• Email address
• Profession title
• Professional social network –  e.g. LinkedIn

Here is an example signature;

Warm regards,

Jill North IT Project Manager 078837437373 [email protected] LinkedIn

Quick tip: To save yourself from having to write your signature every time you send a job application, you can save it within your email drafts, or on a separate documents that you could copy in.

What to include in your PHD Application cover letter

Here’s what kind of content you should include in your PHD Application cover letter…

The exact info will obviously depend on your industry and experience level, but these are the essentials.

• Your relevant experience – Where have you worked and what type of jobs have you held?
• Your qualifications – Let recruiters know about your highest level of qualification to show them you have the credentials for the job.
• The impact you have made – Show how your actions have made a positive impact on previous employers; perhaps you’ve saved them money or helped them to acquire new customers?
• Your reasons for moving – Hiring managers will want to know why you are leaving your current or previous role, so give them a brief explanation.
• Your availability – When can you start a new job ? Recruiters will want to know how soon they can get you on board.

Don’t forget to tailor these points to the requirements of the job advert for best results.

PHD Application cover letter templates

Copy and paste these PHD Application cover letter templates to get a head start on your own.

Dear Admissions Committee

I am writing to express my strong interest in the Ph.D. in Physics programme at the University of London. As a highly motivated and dedicated individual with a deep fascination with the fundamental principles of physics, I am eager to contribute my academic background and research experience to your faculty.

I hold an MSc in Physics from the University of Birmingham, where I achieved distinctions for quantum mechanics, thermodynamics, and atomic & molecular physics. During this period, I was involved in evaluating quantum phenomena using computational methods, which honed my analytical skills and provided insights into the intricate nature of quantum systems. My passion for research has also led me to publish two peer-reviewed papers in reputable journals.

I am enthusiastic about continuing my journey in addressing challenges in the field of physics and have previously collaborated with renowned experts in securing £10M in funding to support projects, as well as improving experimental efficiency by 40% through implementing state-of-the-art quantum optics equipment. I have also delivered presentations to share research on condensed matter systems.

I am thrilled at the possibility of joining your institution. Thank you for considering me for the programme.

Kind regards

Matt Turner

I am writing to you concerning the Ph.D. program in Chemical Engineering at the University of Oxford. I possess a profound passion for advanced research and innovation in chemical engineering, with an eagerness to contribute my academic background and problem-solving abilities to your institution.

I hold an MSc in Chemical Engineering from Imperial College London and had the opportunity to delve into cutting-edge projects alongside esteemed experts. We focused on sustainable practices in chemical manufacturing, as well as the efficient production, transformation, and transportation of various products. I helped design and conduct experiments to improve chemical operations and reduce environmental impacts, where my findings were published in two peer-reviewed journals.

Some key accomplishments during master’s studies include, obtaining research funding worth £2M to conduct experiments in catalysis and reaction engineering, and playing a role in improving industrial processes by 50%. In addition, I delivered five oral presentations at international conferences to share information on driving sustainable practices.

Thank you for considering my application, and I am available at your convenience for further discussions.

Sable Norris

Dear Members of the Graduate Admissions Committee

I am writing to express my interest in the Ph.D. programme in Archaeology at the University of Cambridge. I possess a profound fascination for uncovering the mysteries of the past, and I am focused on contributing my academic background, fieldwork experience, and research skills to your institution.

I obtained a master’s degree in Archaeology from the University of Manchester, where I had the privilege of working closely with esteemed faculty and engaged in research that ignited my passion for understanding the Sumerian civilisation.

During my studies I conducted original research on the excavation and analysis of burial sites to shed light on their ancient practices and cultural beliefs, completing 95 excavation seasons, which was 30+ more than any other student, co-authoring two research papers published in reputable journals, and securing £500K from the UK government to conduct a 3-month research trip in the Middle East.

My experience coupled with advanced coursework in archaeological methodologies and artefact analysis have equipped me with the skills to excel in the programme. Thank you for considering my application.

Dominic Ferdinand

Writing an impressive cover letter is a crucial step in landing a place on a PHD, so taking the time to perfect it is well worth while.

By following the tips and examples above you will be able to create an eye-catching cover letter that will wow recruiters and ensure your CV gets read – leading to more job interviews for you.

Good luck with your job search!