Job Description
Overview
Introduction
The Department of Archaeology, Classics and Egyptology is internationally reputed for its world-class interdisciplinary research. Our long-standing research into the economies of the Greek, Egyptian and Roman worlds means that our postgraduate researchers can draw on a strong interdisciplinary research environment.
With individual specialisms ranging from papyrology, epigraphy and digital humanities to literary analysis and the interrogation of visual and material culture, we ask fundamental questions and challenge orthodoxies. When you study with us, you’ll be encouraged to be innovative, bold and open in your investigations.
To help you excel in your field of study, we offer training in a wide range of ancient languages, including Greek, Latin, Egyptian, Coptic, Sumerian and Akkadian. You can also study modern languages on the University’s flagship Open Languages programme.
We have dedicated budgets for supporting research and training activities, including the Histories, Languages and Cultures Postgraduate Research Fund and The Peet Travel Award. We’ll also provide you with tailored support for applications to external competitive funding schemes.
Research culture
The University of Liverpool has pioneered the study of the ancient world for more than 130 years.
Our areas of expertise include:
- Ancient Greek society, culture, politics, religion and medicine
- Philosophy
- Ancient Greek and Latin literature
- Literary cultures of the Roman empire
- The politics, economy and administration of Ancient Rome
- Receptions of Classical antiquity in the modern world.
Our classics and ancient history research groups and seminar series provide a forum for the exchange of new concepts and knowledge produced by staff and postgraduate researchers. This gives you the opportunity to present your research, develop your research profile, and interact with other leading figures in your field of study from the UK and abroad.
How to apply
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1. Identify potential supervisors
Find potential supervisors in the Department of Archaeology, Classics and Egyptology.
For any questions about finding a supervisor, please contact Postgraduate Research Enquiries: hlc-pgr@liverpool.ac.uk.
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2. Prepare your application documents
You may need the following documents to complete your online application:
- A research proposal (this should cover the research you’d like to undertake)
- University transcripts and degree certificates to date
- Passport details (international applicants only)
- English language certificates (international applicants only)
- A personal statement
- A curriculum vitae (CV)
- Contact details for two proposed supervisors
- Names and contact details of two referees.
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3. Apply
Finally, register and apply online. You’ll receive an email acknowledgment once you’ve submitted your application. We’ll be in touch with further details about what happens next.
Fees and funding
Your tuition fees, funding your studies, and other costs to consider.
Tuition fees
UK fees (applies to Channel Islands, Isle of Man and Republic of Ireland)
Full-time place, per year – £5,006
Part-time place, per year – £2,503
International fees
Full-time place, per year – £24,600
Part-time place, per year – £12,300
Fees stated are for the 2025-26 academic year.
Additional costs
We understand that budgeting for your time at university is important, and we want to make sure you understand any costs that are not covered by your tuition fee. This could include buying a laptop, books, or stationery.
Find out more about the additional study costs that may apply to this degree, as well as general student living costs.
Funding your PhD
If you’re a UK national, or have settled status in the UK, you may be eligible to apply for a Postgraduate Doctoral Loan worth up to £30,301 to help with course fees and living costs.
There’s also a variety of alternative sources of funding. These include funded research opportunities and financial support from UK research councils, charities and trusts. Your supervisor may be able to help you secure funding.
Scholarships and bursaries
We offer a range of scholarships and bursaries that could help pay your tuition fees and living expenses.
Duncan Norman Research Scholarship
If you’re awarded this prestigious scholarship, you’ll receive significant funding to support your postgraduate research. This includes full payment of your PhD fees and a cash bursary of £17,000 per year while you study. One award is available in each academic year.
Sport Liverpool Performance Programme
Apply to receive tailored training support to enhance your sporting performance. Our athlete support package includes a range of benefits, from bespoke strength and conditioning training to physiotherapy sessions and one-to-one nutritional advice.