MPhil Evolution and Ecology

Conserving biodiversity and avoiding the extinction of species are huge global challenges. It has never been more important for scientists to understand organisms and ecosystems, how they have evolved and are interrelated, and how they respond to the threats they face. Evolution and Ecology seek to explore the natural world, from individuals to populations, and communities to ecosystems. Study in this area enables examination of how organisms interact with each other and their environment, and how these processes are affected by human activities. This helps us understand the planetary ecosystem and how it responds to environmental change. Our MPhil/PhD programme is designed to enable students to develop their research skills by focusing on a specialist set of research questions in this area. Students can benefit from training courses provided by the University to develop key skills in research. Under the guidance and advice of their PhD supervisors, students will be encouraged to present talks and seminars on their work both at the University of Lincoln as well at national and international meetings and conferences. Under the guidance of your PhD supervisors students will also be expected to produce progress reports, develop their ability to write up work for publication in peer-reviewed journals, and ultimately to effectively communicate their research and thesis. Beyond learning how to conduct research and the specialist skills that students are expected to develop within their subject discipline (e.g. how to work in a molecular laboratory or conduct animal cognition experiments), the process of studying for a research degree can provide transferable skills in problem-solving, time management, independent and team work, and communication.