PhD Natural Sciences at University of Exeter

Programme overview

Many of the most exciting developments in science are occurring at the boundaries where different branches of sciences, and mathematics, meet. Studying for a PhD in Natural Sciences will equip you with the ability to view research questions through multiple scientific lenses, with the emphasis on creating mathematical models that can be tested against observations. You will join an incredibly strong, and supportive, community of undergraduates, postgraduate researchers and staff who share a passion for exciting and ground-breaking research across the sciences and mathematics.

Duration: Maximum 4 years full-time; part-time pro-rata (0.5-0.9 FTE) | Study mode: full-time / part-time (research degree) | Intake: September, January or April | Location: Exeter, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

Natural Sciences supervisors have close links with different research institutes, such as the Living Systems , as well as research groups within such areas as Functional Materials. Profiles of Natural Sciences staff

Career pathways

As well as providing a gateway to careers in scientific research, whether in academia or companies, many employers value graduates with a background in a broad based multi-disciplinary and mathematical science degree.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Normally a first degree equivalent to at least a UK 2:1 Honours degree (a 2:1 or equivalent is needed to be considered by the main funding bodies); relevant personal, professional and educational experience may also be considered for some programmes. Specific requirements vary by research topic. English language: Profile E (international applicants). Application deadlines: The application deadlines for September starters are: 30 June for International Applicants 31 July for Home Applicants. Applications received after these deadline dates and before 1 October

Domestic applicants: GBP 5,006 a year (2025/26). Home fee for 2026/27 to be announced; 2025/26 rate shown. Full-time; part-time pro-rata. Source

International applicants: GBP 29,900 a year (2026/27). Full-time. Source

Intake: September, January or April

Duration: Maximum 4 years full-time; part-time pro-rata (0.5-0.9 FTE)

Apply through the official page: https://www.exeter.ac.uk/study/pg-research/apply/

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