PhD Environmental Biology: The University of Manchester

Course description

PhD programmes are based on individual research projects that last 3 or 4 years, working with a specific academic supervisor (principle investigators). Applicants are specifically matched with a principle investigator based on their research interests and background.

Animals, microorganisms and plants live in environments to which they have become adapted through millions of years of evolution. They often have to respond to changes which may be biotic or abiotic in nature, and, increasingly, to anthropogenic perturbations which have resulted in Global Environmental Change. In understanding how organisms respond and interact with one another in their natural and man-made habitats, a wide spectrum of approaches is employed ranging from molecular biology to population biology and community ecology. State-of-the-art facilities for 'controlled environment' are used to regulate climate variables and to study interactions between species. These include greenhouses, controlled environment rooms, whole animal facilities and insectaries. Research projects involve both laboratory and field studies including temperate and exotic habitats. Examples of areas of investigation include:

• Seasonal & Hormonal Regulation of Animal Behaviour
• Reproductive Strategies of Plants
• Animal & Microbes and their Evolution
• Pollution & Environmental Change
• Plants, Pathogens & Weed Control
• Soil Ecology & Mineralization
• Evolutionary Genetics
• Nutrient Dynamics & Aquatic Pollution
• Biological Conservation & Biofilms

Career opportunities

In terms of career progression, the majority of their postgraduate students remain in research, while others move into related areas such as education, information technology, consultancy and management, helped by the  comprehensive skills training they gain during their programme of study.

Entry requirements

Academic entry qualification overview:

The standard entry requirement for PhD study is a First or Upper Second class honours degree, or the overseas equivalent, in a relevant subject. In certain circumstances, a Lower Second class honours degree supplemented by a Masters degree, or appropriate relevant work experience, may be acceptable.

English language:

For PhD applicants whose first language is not English an IELTS score of 6.5, TOEFL 577 (paper based), TOEFL 233 (computer based) or TOEFL 90 (internet based) is required as a minimum.