Program Overview

Plant and Crop Sciences PhD/MRes

Overview

Our internationally acclaimed plant and crop science research is focussed on crop plants of global importance such as wheat, rice, barley, potato and tomato, and underutilised crops such as bambara.

Research Areas

We undertake extensive fundamental research on mechanisms controlling plant growth and development using model plants, including Arabidopsis.

• Investigating molecular mechanisms in plant cells and tissues that control important developmental processes
• Investigating performance of crop plants in the field
• Studying the interactions between plants, their environment and other organisms including pathogens and beneficial microbes

Course Content

• PhD: An independent in-depth research project
• MRes: A one-year course that includes an original research project worth 120 credits and 60 credits of optional taught modules

Entry Requirements

• Home / UK students: 2:1 (or international equivalent) in a relevant subject or 2:2 (or international equivalent) in a relevant subject with a Merit at masters level
• EU / International students: 2:1 (or international equivalent) in a relevant subject or 2:2 (or international equivalent) in a relevant subject with a Merit at masters level
• English language requirements: IELTS 6.5 (6.0 in each element)

Fees

• Home / UK: £5,006
• International: £32,400 for low-cost projects, £35,750 for high-cost lab-based, £44,000 for technically intensive or specialised projects with high consumable costs, or £56,400 for exceptional technically intensive or specialised projects with high consumable costs

Funding

• Many ways to fund your research degree, from scholarships to government loans
• Check our guide to find out more about funding your postgraduate degree

Support

• Formal training and guidance are critical components of the postgraduate experience
• Project-related training is provided by the supervisors and other staff within the school
• Researcher training and development through the Researcher Academy
• Student support services, including academic and disability support, childcare services, counselling service, faith support, financial support, mental health and wellbeing support, visa and immigration advice, and welfare support

Careers

• Careers advice and support
• Expert staff will work with you to explore PhD career options and apply for vacancies, develop your interview skills and meet employers
• International students who complete an eligible degree programme in the UK on a student visa can apply to stay and work in the UK after their course under the Graduate immigration route

Facilities

• Sutton Bonington Campus combines world-leading laboratories with a countryside location
• Access to student services, a library, sports centre and places to eat
• Specialist facilities include the super lab, food processing pilot plant, glasshouses and University farm

Related Courses

• Environmental Sciences PhD/MPhil/MRes
• Biosciences PhD/MPhil/MRes