University of Nottingham

What you'll study

The PhD is wholly research-led and tailored around an individual project supervised by staff in the School of Life Sciences. Typical research themes include population and community ecology, evolutionary genetics and genomics, behavioural ecology, species conservation and responses to environmental change. Projects often combine fieldwork, laboratory techniques (for example molecular genetics, stable isotope analysis or physiological assays) and quantitative approaches such as statistical modelling, spatial analysis and phylogenetics.

Training is provided in experimental design, data analysis (including use of R and other statistical tools), scientific communication and research integrity. Students normally undertake a programme of skills development through workshops and short courses covering topics such as advanced statistics, bioinformatics, GIS, grant writing and public engagement. Depending on the project, students may spend substantial time at field sites, in molecular laboratories, or using the university's computing resources to run simulations and large datasets.

Entry requirements

Applicants are typically expected to hold a good honours degree (first class or upper second class) in a relevant biological science discipline. Many successful candidates also have a relevant postgraduate qualification such as an MSc or MRes with a research component. Admission is based on academic record, research potential, fit between the applicant's interests and available supervisors, and often a research proposal or evidence of research experience.

International applicants should meet the university's English language requirements. Candidates should check specific supervisory adverts or School of Life Sciences pages for any additional expectations for particular projects, and for information about applying for studentships or other funding opportunities.

Career prospects

Graduates from this programme enter a wide range of careers. Common paths include academic research and teaching, research positions in government and non-government environmental agencies, roles in conservation organisations, ecological consultancy, and positions in biodiversity monitoring and natural resource management. Other routes include science policy, scientific publishing, data science and roles in biotechnology or environmental technology companies. The training in quantitative methods and project management is also valued in broader sectors such as analytics and environmental impact assessment.

Why study at University of Nottingham

The University of Nottingham hosts active research groups in ecology and evolutionary biology with access to well-equipped molecular and ecological laboratories, sequencing facilities and high-performance computing. The School of Life Sciences offers an interdisciplinary environment, with opportunities to collaborate across campus and with external partners on conservation, climate impact and biodiversity projects.

Students benefit from structured postgraduate training, regular research seminars, and a supportive supervisory team. The university's campuses and regional field sites provide practical opportunities for field-based studies, and links with conservation organisations and industry support applied and translational research. The PhD environment emphasises skill development in quantitative analysis, communication and research leadership to prepare graduates for diverse scientific careers.