Ecology, Evolution and Behaviour

The ecology, evolution and behaviour of organisms are key elements of the natural world we see around us. Improving our knowledge of these topics is important in mitigating the impacts of environmental change, improving food and water security, increasing animal welfare and explaining the diversity of life we see across the globe. 

This research masters gives you the opportunity to develop your understanding of the natural world by undertaking an independent research project in a topic within ecology, evolution or behaviour.  

You will undertake this research project with the support of a dedicated research-active supervisor who is an expert in the field. They will guide and support you as you develop and conduct your project, giving you the opportunity to take ownership of a piece of research that you are passionate about. Supervisors will be members of staff from the dynamic and vibrant research community within the School of Life and Health Sciences. This includes world-leading researchers from the Centre for Research in Ecology, Evolution and Behaviour and the Centre for Research in Evolutionary, Social and Interdisciplinary Anthropology. Details of potential supervisors and research projects can be found here. When youre developing your application, you should in touch with a potential supervisor to discuss potential research project topics.  

With the support and guidance of this supervisor, youll spend the full duration of the programme conducting your research project. This includes developing hypotheses and predictions, collecting data, analysing these data and presenting these data in a final written report. This final report includes a paper suitable for submission to a peer-reviewed scientific journal and a press release to promote your project's findings.  

The programme will provide you with an in-depth knowledge of your chosen topic. In addition, it also places an emphasis on providing you with transferrable skills in areas such as project management, data analysis and communication that will help you develop a future career in further research, non-academic or commercial sectors. You can find out more on the course's Twitter and Instagram pages.

Youll also receive dedicated training in research methods. This includes learning skills in scientific project design, data analysis and scientific reporting. Dedicated sessions are also provided in transferrable skills such as scientific communication, grant writing, CV writing and interview preparation. 

Completion of a bachelor’s Degree at 65% or GPA of 2.5

Career Options

This course provides students with preparation for a wide range of future careers. These include careers in further research (e.g. PhDs), conservation projects and organisations, animal welfare groups and environmental charities. It also provides students with research skills that will valuable in a range careers in the public and private sectors.