CEPSAR currently hosts more than 90 PhD students pursuing internationally significant research across the full range of CEPSAR research areas, many spanning the interfaces between the core research of the five disciplines.
Each year a number of projects are advertised with funding from sources such as NERC, STFC, industry and charitable organisations, as well as from CEPSAR and the Open University. Full tuition fees are paid and there is a maintenance grant of £13,590 per annum for three years with the possible extension for a further six months depending on performance.
The benefits of pursuing a PhD through CEPSAR are extensive:
• The chance to become a member of a very active and internationally recognized group of researchers completing cutting edge science. In the last RAE 70% of the research was recognised as 'world leading' or 'internationally excellent'.
• The opportunity to be fully involved in the vibrant research community of over 100 scientists and to work closely with a team of research-active supervisors at the forefront of their science. Every project has at least two internal supervisors and many projects have supervisors from other institutions.
• Access to the full range of CEPSAR cutting edge and well-funded laboratories and facilities
• Your own up-to-date PC on your desk for the duration of your studies.
• Financial support for presenting your research at international conferences.
• Office space in one of the core Discipline areas shared with a few other postgraduates
Training is a key part of pursuing a Phd, not only in the areas that you need to complete your scientific research, but transferable skills that provide the best opportunity to progress as you wish once you have obtained your Phd:
• Comprehensive training programme in generic skills that will be tailored to your needs
• Training in scientific and practical skills appropriate to the project that you choose
• Detailed self study pack on Postgraduate Research Skills
• The opportunity to study an Open University undergraduate course each year free of charge. These include languages, maths, technology and arts courses
• Support to attend Research Council-approved short courses as appropriate.
How to apply for a Phd in CEPSAR?
Applications will be considered from students with, or expecting to gain, a first degree in any of a wide range of disciplines including physics, mathematics, engineering, biology, chemistry, earth sciences or geology, or similar disciplines at first or upper second class. The key to eligibility is having, or predicted, a first or upper second class degree. We generally find that candidates that have further study such as Master’s or have pursued a 4-year programme such as an MGeol for example might have an advantage over candidates with a BSc, but is not the policy of the Open University to exclude applicants with BSc qualifications. In the first instance contact the first-named supervisor on the advertised project and you will be asked to supply a CV and the name of referees. All projects are offered after a round of interviews, they are highly competetive and we recommend that you spend some time acquainting yourself with up to date literature relating to the project, for which you should feel free to request from the supervisors. Preparation is the key to success.
Pursuing a PhD is not all about work 24 hours 7 days a week and CEPSAR students are known for providing a vibrant social network and planned and impromptu activities:
Lively social programme organised by RocSoc, traditionally the social wing of the Earth Scientists but now embracing all CEPSAR students, and the Open University Postgraduate Students Society
Events include:
• Sports events such as touch rugby, cricket, football and squash
• Day trips, camping trips and themed evenings
• Annual cake baking competition
• Christmas party
• Annual Dinner - organised by students for all CEPSAR members