Marine Sciences PhD Projects, Programmes & Scholarships

A PhD in Marine Sciences offers you the opportunity to work on research that is of importance to the field of marine sciences. You can focus your research on a particular geographical location such as an ocean, sea or inlets, or you can look at the study of marine organisms such as fish or invertebrates.

What's it like to study a PhD in Marine Sciences?

Working under the guidance of an expert supervisor, you'll work towards completion of a thesis that will make an original contribution to the field of Marine Sciences. You'll have some departmental training sessions and there may also be some core training programmes you can attend.

Most PhD programmes in Marine Sciences have a research training centre attached, meaning you will likely have access to equipment to aid your research. You may also be encouraged to attend conferences or publish your work to promote your research.

Some PhDs in Marine Sciences also come with a research aim already attached. You may also have the option of proposing your own research project, though this is less common.

PhD in Marine Sciences entry requirements

The minimum entry requirement for a PhD in Marine Sciences is usually a 2:1 undergraduate honours degree in a related subject, though a high Masters in a related field may also be required.

PhD in Marine Sciences funding options

The main body funding PhDs in the UK is the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC). Most students have funding coverage through the NERC as part of their PhD studentship, which is awarded with a tuition fee waiver. However, it is possible to apply for standalone research funding elsewhere if you are planning to self-fund your PhD. Possible sources of funding include charities, trusts and government bodies.

PhD in Marine Sciences careers

Many PhD graduates in Marine Sciences go on to work in areas such as conservation, pollution, maritime trade, oil and gas and aquaculture. You may also decide to continue your research career by applying for a postdoc or research fellow position.