Postgraduate opportunities

WACL offers PhDs and MScs by research, supported by enhanced training packages, that can be taken full or part time.

PhDs are funded through the NERC Panorama Doctoral Training Partnership (DTP) and the Department of Chemistry as well as other independent funding sources.

Read the current Panorama PhD opportunities in WACL (PDF , 2,813kb) for October 2023, the deadline for applications is Wednesday 4 January 2023.

Entry requirements

PhD or MPhil

The University requirement for PhD or MPhil programmes is usually 2:1 or equivalent in a relevant subject. Other relevant experience and circumstances can also be taken into account, and we are happy to consider applications from those who have taken alternative routes but have the required knowledge and experience. However, please note that funded positions are extremely competitive and only those with a 2:1 equivalent or higher are likely to be considered for financial support.

MSc by research

The University requirement for MSc by research is 2:2 or equivalent in a relevant subject.

English language requirement

For those whose first language is not English, you will be required to meet the English Language requirements of both the University and the UKBA.

Funding

Individuals who wish to pursue an independent fellowship would be very welcome at WACL:

• Funding for research programmes
• Leeds York NERC Doctoral Training Partnership (DTP)
• Independent Research Fellowships

Interested in a career in Atmospheric Science? See what our students say about working in WACL

William Dixon - "The atmosphere in WACL is very open. Everyone is friendly and approachable, which is a great opportunity to share ideas and discuss topics; this along with the vast knowledge base of the experienced staff makes progress in your project a breeze. The equipment within the laboratories is state-of-the-art and allows for cutting-edge research to be performed at a high level. If research requires equipment which doesn’t currently exist; out-of-the-box solutions are found; which suits creative minds. WACL is the perfect place for a motivated, creative person looking to be on the fore-front of research and further their own skills."

Katie Smith - “I decided to study Atmospheric Chemistry because the research done here has a huge impact on public health. Improving the quality of the environment and atmosphere around us is rapidly becoming a priority for developed nations and I am proud to be contributing to this field. I am designing a sensor for monitoring emissions to the atmosphere, and working in the laboratory is a fun part of my day-to-day life. Working at WACL is great as my colleagues are all really friendly and enthusiastic about what they do.”