Astrochemistry

Award Award	Duration Duration	Start dates Start dates	Application Application
PhD (MPhil also available) PhD (MPhil also available)	Full-time: 3–4 years Part-time: 6–8 years Full-time: 3–4 years Part-time: 6–8 years	February and October February and October	January to April January to April

Astrochemistry is the study of molecules in space, how they form, where they form, and what role they play in shaping the formation and evolution of astrophysical systems, particularly in star and planet formation. The chemical interactions between atoms, ions, and molecules in both the gas and solid phase span from the coldest, darkest regions of space, known as the interstellar medium, through to the surface of planets, where such processes may be key in astrobiology – the study of the emergence of life. This subject therefore encompasses chemistry, physics and astronomy, as well as aspects of planetary science and biology.

Research students in this field benefit from a wider community of the Physical Sciences at the OU. Astrochemistry is a key part of OU research, bridging the Astronomy group and Planetary Sciences groups.

Our research splits broadly into three areas: laboratory astrochemistry, (i.e. experimental-based research), observational astrochemistry, (i.e. fieldwork and computing-based research), and theoretical astrochemistry, which is computer-based and spans the range from theoretical chemistry to astrochemical modelling.

Minimum 2:1 undergraduate degree (or equivalent). If you are not a UK citizen, you may need to prove your knowledge of English.

We welcome enquiries from prospective students in the following areas:

Laboratory

Observational

Theoretical

Please also see further opportunities.

UK fee UK fee	International fee International fee
Full-time: £5,006 per year Full-time: £5,006 per year	Full-time: £16,420 per year Full-time: £16,420 per year
Part-time: £2,503 per year Part-time: £2,503 per year	Part-time: £8,210 per year Part-time: £8,210 per year

Some of our research students are funded via the UKRI Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC) Doctoral Training Partnership; others are self-funded.

For detailed information about fees and funding, visit Fees and studentships.

To see current funded studentship vacancies across all research areas, see Current studentships.

An image to illustrate the Astrochemistry research topic

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