Forensic Science PhD Projects, Programmes & Scholarships

A PhD in Forensic Science will enable you to conduct in-depth research into the application of scientific methods in the field of forensics.

What's it like to study a PhD in Forensic Science?

Working under the guidance of an expert supervisor, you'll work towards an extended thesis that will make an original contribution to the field of Forensic Science. You'll have the opportunity to gain training in forensic skills at specialist forensics facilities, meaning you'll be ready to take your research to a wider audience by the end of your programme.

Possible research areas include:

• Forensic biology
• Forensic genetics
• Forensic toxicology
• Forensic medicine
• Forensic computing

Your research might involve working with biological and chemical material at the crime scene, such as the DNA of blood, fibres and gunshot residues. You could be developing new methods to detect and identify evidence from crime scenes in order to help with the police investigation process.

If you're considering a PhD in Forensic Science, it might also be worth considering a PhD in Biomedical Sciences, as the two areas are closely related.

Entry requirements for a PhD in Forensic Science

The minimum entry requirement for a PhD in Forensic Science is usually a 2:1 undergraduate degree in a relevant subject, such as Biomedical Sciences, Chemistry or Forensic Science. You may occasionally be able to enter a programme with a 3rd class degree if you have a Masters with merit, although this is less common.

PhD in Forensic Science funding options

The main body funding PhDs in Forensic Science in the UK is the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC). Projects are funded by a doctoral loan, which is partial coverage of your tuition fee and a living cost stipend.

Some PhDs in Forensic Science have a project funding attached, meaning you'll automatically be awarded funding if you're successful in your application. If you're proposing your own research, you may want to consider the option of having your own independent funding, which you can either apply for separately, or attach to your application if possible.

PhD in Forensic Science careers

Forensic scientists work in a range of sectors, from law enforcement and crime scene investigation, to DNA analysis and digital forensics. You could work for the police, the military or the government, or in forensics at a hospital or as a private consultant.