PhD/MPhil Palaeontology at University of Manchester

Programme overview

Bring the deep past back to life. Palaeontology research at The University of Manchester ranges from molecular and morphological evolution, the biology of extinct organisms, past ecosystems and their response to environmental changes, the origins, growth and loss of biodiversity through Earth history, and chemical reactions over deep time. As a postgraduate researcher in this Department of Earth and Environmental Science research area, you will be part of the Interdisciplinary Centre for Ancient Life (ICAL) research group.

Faculty: Faculty of Science and Engineering | Department: Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences | Duration: PhD 3-4 Years Full-Time; MPhil 1 Year Full-Time | Study mode: full-time / part-time | Intake: September 2027 | Location: Manchester, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

Research in the Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences covers three main research themes ; earth and planetary science, environment and society, and life on earth. Research within this programme is directed towards dinosaur limb mechanics, including computer modelling of dinosaur gait, trackway formation and interpretation, including LiDAR digital mapping of sites, palaeopathology, taphonomy, and embryology.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

The standard academic entry requirement for this PhD is an upper second-class (2:1) honours degree in a discipline directly relevant to the PhD (or international equivalent) OR any upper-second class (2:1) honours degree and a Master’s degree at merit in a discipline directly relevant to the PhD (or international equivalent). Other combinations of qualifications and research or work experience may also be considered. English language: IELTS 6.5 overall with a minimum of 6 in writing and listening, and 5.5. in all other sub-tests. Interview: An interview is required for entry to this programme of study.

Domestic applicants: GBP 8,100 a year (2027/28). PhD (full-time); Band B fee band Source

International applicants: GBP 31,400 a year (2027/28). PhD (full-time); Band A fee band Source

Intake: September 2027

Duration: PhD 3-4 Years Full-Time; MPhil 1 Year Full-Time

Apply through the official page: https://www.se.manchester.ac.uk/study/postgraduate-research/getting-started/applying/

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