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The Department of Meteorology is world-renowned for its pioneering research on the fundamental dynamics and physics of weather and climate.

Our research divisions and research groups tackle some of the most critical environmental issues facing society today, including understanding and predicting climate, hazardous weather and air pollution.

Learn more about our research

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

Earth System Prediction Doctoral Training Programme

Advancing the Frontiers of Earth System Prediction (AFESP) offers this Doctoral Training Programme for researchers keen to address next-generation challenges in Earth system prediction, and operational weather and climate forecasting. You will be trained and embedded within the overall AFESP programme, which the University is delivering in partnership with the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF), the UK Met Office and the National Centre for Atmospheric Science.

Find out more about funding from Earth System Prediction Doctoral Training Programme

Mathematics for our Future Climate

Are you ready to be at the forefront of mathematical solutions for climate challenges? The Mathematics for our Future Climate Centre for Doctoral Training programme is an interdisciplinary initiative that harnesses the power of mathematics to address the urgent issues presented by climate change.

Find out about funding from Mathematics for our Future Climate

Find a PhD

We want to ensure that your time spent with us is as rewarding as possible.

To allow you to explore your options, here's a list of some of our currently available PhD opportunities. We do, however, offer many more options, so please contact us for further information.


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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.

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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.