We undertake interdisciplinary, world-leading research across the full spectrum of Earth Science and Engineering.
We encourage all prospective students to contact the primary project supervisor or the alternative contact person for more information and an informal chat to discuss the process of applying and preparing your research statement.
Our research – both pure and applied – covers a broad range of subjects, from studying past climate in Antarctica to developing innovative means of capturing and storing carbon from our atmosphere, modelling environmental pollution and hazards, characterising the myriad flows of our oceans, and revealing the history of life on both our own planet and others. Our work covers seven main Research Themes – as shown below.
We collaborate with industry partners from the mineral and energy sectors, and participate in cross-disciplinary and cross-departmental Research Centres such as the Grantham Institute, the Energy Futures Lab, and the Sustainable Gas Institute.
Explore our PhD projects by topic
Departmental PhD projects and scholarships are currently available in the following research areas:
PhD Projects by Topic
Climate and environment
Characterising Earth’s ever-changing environment in terms of its chemistry, physics, biology and more
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Computational modelling
Developing advanced numerical methods, models, and computational techniques for prediction and monitoring
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PhD Projects by Topic
AI, machine learning and data science
Developing pioneering research on fundamental data science and machine learning for real world applications
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Energy and resources
Researching the sustainable extraction and production of low-carbon energy, energy storage and decarbonisation
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PhD Projects by Topic
Earth processes and geohazards
Understanding natural hazards from cause to consequence, including tsunamis, earthquakes, volcanism, landslides, and impacts
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Life and health
Deciphering the geological record to reveal the history of life, and addressing key issues facing our modern lives
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PhD Projects by Topic
Planetary science
Studying the planets and solid bodies of the Solar System – and beyond
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All projects
Full list of PhD projects currently available within the Department of Earth Science and Engineering
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