Job Description
Overview
Earth Science at Liverpool is a dynamic and internationally recognised discipline, offering research degrees and research projects that address critical environmental and energy challenges, such as geothermal energy, carbon capture and microplastics.
Introduction
Our postgraduate researchers are led by internationally-renowned experts and enjoy a first-class experience in an exciting research environment.
Our research integrates fieldwork, experimental studies, and numerical modelling to explore both solid Earth and surface processes. PhD students benefit from world-leading laboratory facilities, dedicated supervision, and training in essential research skills, including data analysis, modelling and scientific communication.
With strong industry and research organisation partnerships, we provide an outstanding environment for developing expertise and making meaningful contributions to global scientific challenges.
Research culture
Our research community is collaborative, innovative and internationally engaged. We focus on addressing fundamental earth science questions with real-world impact, using a mix of laboratory, field and computational approaches. Postgraduate researchers are fully integrated into research groups, engaging in interdisciplinary projects and contributing to global energy and environmental solutions. Our postgraduate researchers also present at international conferences and publish in leading journals, preparing them for future careers in academia and industry.
How to apply
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1. Identify potential supervisors
For help finding a supervisor, please email envspgr@liverpool.ac.uk or call +44 (0)151 794 2874.
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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
Tuition fees for a full-time place on this programme in academic year 2025-26 are:
- £5,006 per year for UK, Channel Islands, Isle of Man and Republic of Ireland students
- £24,600 or £31,250 per year for international students.
Tuition fees for a part-time place on this programme in academic year 2025-26 are:
- £2,503 per year for UK, Channel Islands, Isle of Man and Republic of Ireland students
- £12,300 or £15,650 per year for international students.
Please note, the tuition fee you pay will reflect the nature of your research project. Some research projects incur a higher fee than others, for example if you’re required to undertake laboratory work. You’ll be informed of the fee for your intended PhD in your offer letter.
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.
