Biological Sciences

Entry requirements

An upper second-class honours degree (or equivalent) in biological sciences or related discipline.

See international equivalent qualifications on the International Office website.

Months of entry

January, April, July, October

Course content

Researchers in the School of Biological Sciences conduct cutting-edge research across a broad range of biological disciplines, including genomics, biotechnology, cell biology, molecular plant science, sensory biology, animal behaviour and evolution, population biology, host-disease interactions and ecosystem services.

The school is based in the ££54 million state-of-the-art Life Sciences building. Our laboratory facilities are among the best in the world with critical '-omics' technologies and associated computing capacity (bioinformatics) a core component. The building is designed to foster our already strong collaborative and convivial environment and includes a centre for evolutionary biology research including key researchers from earth sciences, biochemistry, social medicine, chemistry and computer sciences. The school has strong links with local industry, including BBC Bristol, Bristol Zoo and the University of Bristol Botanic Garden.

We offer PhD and an MSc by research programmes in many aspects of biology as well as a taught MSc in Bioinformatics and a taught MSc in Science Communication for a Better Planet. We have a lively postgraduate community of approximately 175 students. Our stimulating environment and excellent graduate school training and support provide opportunities to develop your future career.

Our postgraduates make a vital research contribution, while developing skills and receiving training in communication, outreach, statistics, scientific writing and career planning.

We strongly encourage all applicants to contact an academic supervisor before starting their application. Scroll down to the bottom of this page to see a list of potential supervisors and their areas of research interest.

Information for international students

See international equivalent qualifications on the International Office website.

Fees and funding

If you wish to be considered for NERC GW4+ DTP funding for this programme please refer to the NERC GW4+ DTP prospectus page for guidance in making a PhD application.

If you wish to be considered for BBSRC SWBio DTP funding, please refer to the SWBio DTP information pages for guidance in making a PhD application.

Research is supported by BBSRC, MRC, NERC, the ERC, the Royal Society, the Wellcome and Leverhulme Trusts, the Wolfson Foundation, Defra and other government agencies, charities and industry. All studentships and openings are advertised on the School of Biological Sciences website.

Further information on funding for prospective UK and international postgraduate students.