PhD Archaeology & Palaeoecology at Queen's University Belfast

Programme overview

PhD research degree in Archaeology & Palaeoecology within the School of Natural and Built Environment at Queen's University Belfast. Students join one of two interdisciplinary research cells: PLANET for environmentally focused projects (palaeoecology and scientific archaeology) or PAST for humanities-focused archaeology projects.

Department: School of Natural and Built Environment | Intake: Academic Year 2027/28 | Study mode: full-time / part-time | Location: Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom

What you will study

Supervised independent research in palaeoecology and archaeology. PLANET projects cover long-term ecosystem, human, environment and climate change using pollen analysis, tephra dating, dendrochronology and radiocarbon dating; PAST projects explore material culture, agriculture, ritual space, palaeodiet and death in Ireland, the Mediterranean and Eurasia.

Career pathways

Alumni go on to careers in academia and beyond. Research students can take part in the Graduate School's development programme and the Researcher Plus award for transferable skills.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Normally an Upper Second Class (2:1) Honours degree from a UK or ROI higher education provider, or an equivalent qualification acceptable to the University. International applicants: IELTS 6.5 with no component below 5.5 (taken within the last 2 years), or equivalent.

International applicants: GBP 28,900 a year (2027/28). International and EU Other annual tuition fee; the page lists the Northern Ireland, ROI and GB fees as TBC. Some research programmes carry an additional annual bench fee, not included. Source

Intake: October 2027

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