Postgraduate Study
Research Courses
Our planet and its life are undergoing unprecedented changes. The fossil record provides a rich but relatively untapped data source for how biodiversity has previously responded to environmental changes, from the emergence of the modern biosphere in the Ediacaran-Cambrian to major crises at mass extinctions. Understanding the interplay of environmental change and biodiversity in the past is critical to predicting how life will respond to modern climatic changes. At Oxford, we are always looking for talented and motivated postgraduate students.
The primary pathway to a doctoral degree in palaeobiology is through the Department of Earth Sciences.
We accept applications for DPhil study via three courses (DPhil in Earth Sciences, Intelligent Earth, and ILESLA). Further information on each is given via the links below, including deadlines, eligibility, timelines and interviews.
Application Process
General information on graduate admissions for the University of Oxford can be found on the main University webpages.
Of these courses, only one (the DPhil in Earth Sciences) involves a direct application to the Department of Earth Sciences. The remainder involves a transfer to the Department after completion of programme-specific training and project selection.
Normally, prospective students apply to the fully-funded BBSRC/NERC Interdisciplinary Life and Environmental Sciences Landscape Award (ILESLA).
We encourage you to apply to the DPhil in Earth Sciences in addition to your Intelligent Earth/ILESLA application (you will need to apply separately to each course).
More information about applying to multiple courses and application fee waivers can be found on the main University webpages.
The Department of Earth Sciences also accepts applications for Masters study via the MSc by Research.
Funding
Funding for graduate study in the Department of Earth Sciences can come from a number of sources. We also welcome applications from self-funded students.
Please note that funding deadlines can be sooner than the course deadlines and most are in December or January. If you are looking to seek funding to support your study please apply by the earlier deadline.
The following courses are associated with funded studentships. By applying to these programmes you are automatically considered for a funded place.
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ILESLA Funding Information
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Intelligent Earth Funding Information
Applications to the DPhil in Earth Sciences will automatically be considered for the majority of internal Oxford Scholarships, if you fulfil the eligibility criteria and submit your graduate application by the relevant scholarship deadline (usually December or January). You may also wish to apply for this course if you have alternative funding, including scholarships, industry, or government backing.
Some projects have attached funding, often from an external party or existing grant; this will be noted in the project advert.
A variety of support is available for UK/home and international students. Information on funding, scholarships and bursaries, living costs and other financial considerations can be found on the University Fees and Funding webpages - including information on Oxford funding, college funding and external funding. We encourage you to explore all your options before making an application.
Doctoral Projects
A list of projects proposed by supervisors can be found below.
Applicants can also devise projects of their own in consultation with potential supervisors. You must identify one or two potential supervisors and state their names in the 'proposed supervisor' field on your application form.
Please ensure you contact the project supervisor or a potential supervisor to discuss your project prior to application. This is essential if you are not applying to a listed project.
