Training

The London NERC DTP shares NERC’s ambition to provide world-class PhD training in environmental research across a broad range of fields. We have designed a multidisciplinary 4-year training programme to enthuse and engage and ensure that our students develop the core science skills needed to make optimal progress. Through training, strong cohort dynamics and student choice, our PhD programme aims to enhance the doctoral experience and prepare students to become future leaders in their fields.

During the first six months of the programme we provide core training covering the full spectrum of environmental science. Once they begin their research in earnest, our students receive access to a variety of bespoke training courses that will help them conduct their PhD research and become capable, well-rounded environmental scientists.

Student choice is a key part of the London NERC DTP ethos, and during their core training our students are given time and support to develop PhD projects and consider potential supervisors.

Our programme structure includes new teaching elements contributed by all Partners and spanning all seven research themes. It will equip each student to conduct empirical and/or theoretical research, underpinned by rigorous numerical and statistical skills. We also include a range of transferable skills, from time management to academic writing, ethics and the peer review process, to equip our students with the skills necessary to succeed both within, and outside, academia.

Programme Structure

Year 1 – Autumn Term: Core multi-disciplinary skills training
Year 1 – Spring Term: Core training & PhD project development, Field Class
Year 1 – Summer Term: Students relocate to primary institution and start research
Year 2 – Bespoke training courses to develop specific skills, Students upgrade to full PhD status
Year 3 – Students continue research at their primary institution
Year 4 – Thesis writing and submission, Viva