Course summary
94% of our research overall in Biological Sciences was assessed to be world leading or internationally excellent (REF 2021) Situated in the Brighton and Lewes Downs UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, surrounded by the South Downs National Park, and close to Brighton and the coast, you’ll find yourself in the perfect location for a research project in biology. From animal behaviour to molecular evolution, you work in field and laboratory settings, guided and supervised by our expert faculty. International PhD Academy Would you like to develop your knowledge and research skills before you undertake your PhD research? If you’re a self-funded or sponsored international applicant, join the thriving community in the School of Life Sciences’ International PhD Academy. During your PhD degree, the structure of Year 1 can be tailored to your previous research experience. You’ll have opportunities for bespoke academic, personal and professional development. All this will give you the skills and confidence to excel in your PhD research, and open a wealth of career opportunities. We understand that deciding where and what to study is a very important decision. We’ll make all reasonable efforts to provide you with the courses, services and facilities described in this prospectus. However, if we need to make material changes, for example due to government or regulatory requirements, or unanticipated staff changes, we’ll let you know as soon as possible.
Modules
Major themes are: Sexual conflict; the role of natural selection in molecular evolution; co-operation, conflict and organisation in social insect colonies; mechanisms underlying animal behaviours, including navigation, visual perception, escape behaviour and collective decision-making; ecology and conservation of animals and plants in tropical rainforests, temperate grasslands and pollinators; policy-relevant global analyses; the measurement of environmental contaminants, such as endocrine-disrupting chemicals, and their effects on human and animal health.
Assessment method
Research project
Entry requirements
You’re normally expected to have an upper second-class (2.1) undergraduate honours degree or above. Your qualification should be in a subject relevant to your chosen area of research. You may also be considered for the degree if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
No fee information has been provided for this course
Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website .
Additional fee information
Sponsorship information
Our goal is to ensure that every student who wants to study with us is able to regardless of financial barriers, so that we continue to attract talented and unique people. Details of our scholarships are not yet set for entry in the academic year 2025/26.
Provider information
University of Sussex
Sussex House
Brighton
BN1 9RH
Course contact details
Visit our course pageEnquiries
01273 872774