From Archaeology & Anthropology to Environmental & Biological Sciences, Technology, Design & Engineering, or Psychology & Security, research within the Faculty of Science & Technology is world-leading. By undertaking a Doctor of Philosophy with us you will become part of our thriving research community. In the 2014 Research Excellence Framework (REF) results, we were ranked first in the south-west for art and design, based on world-leading research. Our close links to many local and national heritage sites and projects also make this an excellent place to undertake archaeological and anthropological research, and we support research in these fields that has an impact on modern forensic investigation. You could make a difference in the world of technology and have an impact on saving lives or rehabilitation, or work with our psychologists to improve every day life. We work closely with colleagues from other faculties and specialisms across the university to deliver impactful and exciting research across a multitude of disciplines. To be awarded a PhD, you will need to complete a complex and advanced project. You will be expected to critically investigate and evaluate an approved topic, which results in an original and independent contribution to knowledge, as well as to demonstrate an understanding of research methods appropriate to your chosen field. You will have to present and defend your thesis and/or practical element by viva voce (oral examination), to the satisfaction of the examiners.

A research degree can open new career opportunities in commercial research and development, consultancy, or could lead you to starting your own business. You may alternatively consider a career in academia. You may wish to undertake research to contribute to your knowledge of a specialist subject, or develop your employability by enhancing your skills in project management and analysis.