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Entry requirements

An upper second-class degree or higher (or international equivalent) in a discipline related to the PhD project for which you are applying, such as geology, biological sciences, environmental sciences, chemistry or geography. Some projects may be suitable for those with computing, mathematics, engineering and physics degrees. Applicants with additional relevant experience and/or a master's degree are encouraged to apply.

Months of entry

September

Course content

The Great Western Four+ Doctoral Training Partnership (GW4+ DTP) comprises the University of Bristol, University of Bath, Cardiff University, University of Exeter, British Antarctic Survey, British Geological Survey, Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, the Natural History Museum and Plymouth Marine Laboratory.

The partnership provides a multidisciplinary training environment for postgraduate students in NERC sciences. Due to the nature of the funding, this programme is open primarily to UK students. EU student eligibility is still to be confirmed. There will be a limited number of studentships available to international students.

This NERC-funded doctoral training partnership programme offers studentships for 42 months within three research themes: Dynamic Earth, Living World and Changing Planet.

As part of your PhD studies, you will be offered training that equips you with a range of skills for future employment in many different working environments. You will be expected to attend training during your PhD and are encouraged to take up work placements. Details of training can be found at www.nercgw4plus.ac.uk.

PhD projects are available in earth and environmental science topics within the Schools of Biological Sciences, Chemistry, Earth Sciences and Geographical Sciences. New projects are advertised annually from October on each school's website: