The Shenzhen Institute of Medical Sciences, in collaboration with Westlake University, has launched the Westlake University–SMART Joint PhD Program. This initiative aims to cultivate outstanding, high-level innovative talents with a pioneering spirit, strong research capabilities, and a commitment to exploring fundamental and translational scientific questions, with the ambition to advance the frontiers of life and medical sciences.
The SMART PhD Program is a collaborative doctoral training program between the Shenzhen Medical Academy of Research and Translation (SMART) and leading universities in China. Launched in 2024, the Program aims to redefine the training of the next generation of biomedical experts by fostering stronger and more dynamic links between education, research, and industry.
With a focus on high academic standards, a global perspective, and a cross-disciplinary approach, the Program is designed to nurture innovative individuals who possess the creativity and scientific curiosity to explore critical questions in life sciences and medical research. These future leaders will be equipped to drive advancements in understanding diseases and improving human health.
Westlake University is a new type of high-quality research-oriented university based in the historic Chinese city of Hangzhou - a stunning city well-known throughout Asia for its long history, rich culture, and beautiful scenery. Westlake University was founded by prominent globally respected scientists and scholars and are committed to building a truly international, world-class, research-oriented university. By building world-class research programs and centers, the School of Life Sciences at Westlake University strives to pursue questions fundamental to our understanding of biology and disease, and to develop enabling technologies that advance human health and civilization.
The School of Life Sciences has established research programs in Biophysics and Biochemistry, Cell Biology, Genetics and Developmental Biology, Neurobiology, Immunology and Microbiology, Systems and Synthetic Biology, Chemical Biology, and other related fields.
Shenzhen Medical Academy of Research and Translation (SMART), located in the Greater Bay Area in Southern China, is a leading institute dedicated to advancing medical science. Our mission is to bridge the gap between basic research, translational medicine, and clinical practice, creating a dynamic environment for innovation with real-world impact.
Established in 2023, SMART has brought together distinguished clinical experts and world-leading scientists who have pioneered breakthroughs in their fields. This globally collaborative environment has already led to many groundbreaking discoveries that advance our understanding of the mechanisms underlying human health and disease.
The Westlake University-Shenzhen Medical Academy of Research and Translation Joint PhD Program is now open for applications from international students.
Research Areas encompasses disciplines including:
The program implements a rotation system, instead of mandating a designated Ph.D. advisor for each student upon admission. All students enrolled in the program will participate in lab rotations. These lab rotations serve to familiarize students with a lab group's research area and approach. At the end of rotation phrase, the student's supervisor will then be determined via mutual agreement between the advisor and student.
Details of SMART Fellows can be referred to at the webpage here: https://smart.org.cn/en/smart-fellow
Students will commence their studies in the Autumn Semester of 2026, with the majority of their training components—including coursework and research training—conducted primarily at the Shenzhen Medical Academy of Research and Translation in Shenzhen.
Upon fulfillment of the training plan and meeting the graduation and doctoral degree requirements of Westlake University, students will be awarded a graduation certificate and a doctoral degree certificate from Westlake University.
1. Outstanding students with academic backgrounds in biology, chemistry, biomedical engineering, materials science, psychology, computer science, and related disciplines, who demonstrate strong interest in interdisciplinary fields, are cordially invited to apply.
2. Applicants must be non-Chinese citizens with:
(1) A valid passport
(2) Meet the general health requirements
(3) Have a bachelor's degree in a related subject
(4) Evidence of English Language proficiency (Please see instruction below)
1. A photocopy of your passport
Photocopy of valid passport bio data page. Passport must be an ordinary one and should not expire before December 31st, 2026. Applicants currently residing in China also need to provide a copy of the page containing a valid visa or residence permit.
2. Personal statement
More than 1,500 words in English are required for Ph.D. applicants. The content should include (but not be limited to) why you want to study on this program, why you want to do research (expected content of the research proposal), personal achievements, experiences worth mentioning in your opinion, and your attitude towards life and research.
3. All Diploma and Degree Certificates:
The original or a notarized copy of your certificates (or proof of impending graduation for applicants in their final year of study). If the certificates are not in English or Chinese, you must also attach a notarized translation in English or Chinese. hat has been certified by the Chinese Service Center for Scholarly Exchange, Ministry of Education, People's Republic of China (CSCSE) (for degree awarded) before the designated registration date. Failure to meet this requirement will result in the invalidation of the admission qualification to the Program awarded.
4. All Academic Transcripts
The original or a notarized copy of your transcripts showing all your studies for your bachelor's and master's (if applicable) degrees. If the transcripts are not in English or Chinese, you must also attach a notarized translation in English or Chinese.
5. Evidence of English language proficiency
There are three ways to meet the English language requirement:
I. First language is English.
II. Submit official scores of the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or the International English Language Testing System (IELTS).
III. Submit a Letter of English Proficiency if you received a bachelor's or postgraduate degree from an institution in which the official language of instruction is English.
Language Tests | Minimum Requirements |
IELTS | 6.5 overall |
TOEFL iBT | 90 overall |
6. Catalogue and abstract of published papers or other documents that prove academic ability (not compulsory).
7. Two recommendation letters:
The referee must be a professor or a person with an equivalent academic title. The recommendation letter should be in Chinese or English and include the referee's signature and contact information.
STEP 1
Online Application
Please visit http://gradapply.westlake.edu.cn to apply. In the application system, select the "Westlake University - SMARTJoint PhD Program" in School and "Biology" in Major upon Program Selection and upload required application documents.
STEP 2
Submit the online application.
(Note: Application fee is waived for this year's Westlake University program applicants)
STEP 3
Track your online application status closely and wait for admissions decision
We may contact applicants for supplementary information. The application review usually takes about two weeks after the application deadline. (In special cases, it may take longer.) You may periodically check the application system for updates to admissions status.
Applications to Westlake University-SMART Joint PhD Program for Fall 2026 intake have 3 admissions rounds.
| Program | 1st Round | 2nd Round | 3rd Round |
| Westlake University - SMART Joint PhD Program in Biology | November 18th, 2025, 12pm – December 31st, 2025, 12pm | January 1st, 2026, 12pm - March 31st, 2026, 12pm | April 1st, 2026, 12pm - May 31st, 2026, 12pm |
Tuition & Financial Aid
| Fees | Reference Standard | Note |
| Application Fees | Waived | Application fee is waived for this year's Westlake University program applicants |
| Tuition Fees | 40,000 CNY/year | Full or Partial Tuition Waiver are available |
| Accommodation | 1,500 - 1,800 CNY/year | Cost for Accommodation nearby Shenzhen Medical Academy of Research and Translation (subject to adjustment) |
| Insurance | 800 CNY/year | Cost for Annual Insurance |
Chinese Government Scholarship (CGS)
The Full CGS usually covers tuition fees, university dormitory or accommodation subsidy, stipend, and comprehensive medical insurance. Partial CGS includes one or a few contents covered by the Full CGS. Annual Review is strictly required for all CGS holders.
Joint program students can apply through the recommendation of the relevant departments of your country and Chinese embassies and consulates abroad ((I) Bilateral Program)
Program Assistantship and Scholarship
SMART offers assistantships and scholarships for outstanding students.
Remarks
1. The CGS can be used directly to cover tuition fees
2. SMART will provide students with competitive monthly stipends.
For any questions or issues related to the Westlake University - SMART Joint PhD Program in Biology, please contact SMART at graduate_admission@smart.org.cn or +86-755-26923202
Website: https://smart.org.cn/en/edu
Appendix: Westlake - SMART Program Personal Statement.docx
talent@smart.org.cn
researcher@smart.org.cn
recruitment@smart.org.cn
graduate_office@smart.org.cn
graduate_admission@smart.org.cn
otl@smart.org.cn
smartfund@smart.org.cn
pr@smart.org.cn
