Biological Sciences (Research)

MPhil/PhD research in Biological Sciences spans all biological levels, from molecular analyses to ecosystem study.
Mphil: A successful thesis will demonstrate an appropriate ability to conduct an original investigation, to test ideas, whether your own or those of others, and to understand the relationship of the topic or theme investigated to a wider field of knowledge.
PhD: The thesis should be an original contribution to knowledge or understanding in the field under investigation. For the PhD all students are initially registered for an MPhil and must demonstrate sufficient ability for upgrade to PhD level half way through the programme.
In each of these degrees you will carry out your individual research projects under the guidance of a supervisor, but it is inherently your own work. You must therefore possess the ability to work independently and be self-disciplined in organising your time effectively throughout the programme.
For each student a supervisory panel is appointed, consisting of two supervisors, and a chair, who is normally a Professor or Reader of the University. The first supervisor provides the majority of the supervision and guidance. The whole panel meets with the student at least once a year for a review of work in progress, following which, if the resulting report is satisfactory, registration will continue.

Course Modules

A PhD involves a commitment to at least 3 years’ study, (5 if part-time) and completion of a thesis of around 80,000 words. Your thesis will need to make an original contribution to existing knowledge in your chosen field.

PhD students work closely with academic supervisors whose research interests are compatible with their own.