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A bird on a beach next to a littered can

We offer PhD degrees in ecology and evolutionary biology.

Ecologists can research interactions between species and between species and their environments that influence abundance and distribution. Address climate change adaptation, design of habitat networks and agri-environment schemes.

Evolutionary biologists will use modern analytical tools to research the evolution of plants, animals and microbes. We’re developing new methods to incorporate fossils and geographic data into phylogenies, detect natural selection on phenotypes and probe gene network evolution and adaptive landscapes.

Wildflower in Harris Gardens, the University of Reading.

NERC Climate System and Biodiversity Science CROCUS Doctoral Landscape Award (DLA)

Funded PhD opportunities training a new generation of environmental scientists to become interdisciplinary experts with strong quantitative skills, creative thinkers, and leaders in sustainability and inclusivity. Such knowledge and skills are critical in delivering the ambitious Net Zero, adaptation and restoration plans adopted by governments and businesses worldwide.

Find out more about funding from NERC CROCUS DLA

Whiteknights lake, the University of Reading

NERC AI-INTERVENE Doctoral Focal Award (DFA)

The AI for Unlocking Datasets for Biodiversity Assessment and Prediction (AI-INTERVENE) DFA is training a new generation of AI-empowered data scientists. They will be equipped with the required AI and data science tools, ecological knowledge and wider interdisciplinary skillset to unlock the full potential of the wealth of existing and emerging sources of biodiversity data.

Find out more about funding from AI-INTERVENE

Find a PhD

Find a PhD opportunity that aligns with your interests and career ambitions.

We want to ensure that your time spent with us is as rewarding as possible. To allow you to explore your various options, here's a list of some of currently available PhD opportunities across the School of Biological Sciences.

We do, however, offer many more options, so please contact us for further information. You can propose your own project that aligns with our research. Find out more about how to apply for a PhD.

Student at a cafe drinking tea and using tablet

Types of doctoral degree

We offer several routes to a doctoral qualification, so you can find the one that suits you and the topic you wish to study.

Female student sitting in library making notes at a desk with a pile of books next to her

Part-time study

Part-time PhDs are available as well as full-time, so you can choose a mode of study that suits your circumstances.

Student using her laptop sitting outside a cafe

PhD by Distance

Our PhD by Distance programme allows you to benefit from the expertise of a Reading-based supervisor, while conducting your research in a different location.

Athena SWAN Silver Award