| Qualifications |
Duration |
Start dates |
Application period |
PhD
(MPhil also available) |
Full-time: 3–4 years
Part-time: 6–8 years |
February and October |
January to April |
Qualifications
PhD (MPhil also available) |
Duration
Full-time: 3–4 years
Part-time: 6–8 years |
Start dates
February and October |
Application period
January to April |
Our research focuses on Earth’s terrestrial ecosystems and biosphere-atmosphere exchange of greenhouse gases. Studies undertaken range from investigations of the smallest microbial unit to whole catchment ecosystems and across a wide range of latitudes, with a developing focus on polar ecosystems.
Our research considers element cycles, water balances and energy budgets in response to change, whether caused by natural catastrophe through volcanic eruptions or fire, drought or through human impact.
There is a strong focus on understanding carbon and nutrient dynamics within wetland ecosystems and ecophysiological responses of forests to change. A key approach undertaken in this area is the application of experimental simulations of individual drivers of global change in order to understand likely ecosystem responses, while providing a mechanistic understanding of any changes to key underlying processes and microbial communities.
Our research has taken place across the globe, including northern peatlands, European grasslands, South African heaths, and in the polar regions.
Entry requirements
Minimum 2:1 undergraduate degree (or equivalent) or an appropriate undergraduate degree and postgraduate qualification. If you are not a UK citizen, you may need to prove your knowledge of English.
Potential research projects
We encourage enquiries from prospective students on any aspect of biogeochemistry, ecosystem ecology and environmental science.
Current/recent research projects
- Land-use as a tool in natural flood management
- Nutrient budgets under different land-use scenarios
- Pollution effects on ecosystems
- Ecohydrology of riparian forests
Potential supervisors
Fees and funding
| UK fee |
International fee |
| Full-time: £4,786 per year |
Full-time: £15,698 per year |
| Part-time: £2,393 per year |
Part-time: £7,849 per year |
Some of our research students are funded via the Central England NERC Training Alliance; 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.
Links