About the Program
This fully funded PhD studentship, titled “How is climate change affecting the onset of monsoon rainfall?”, is offered by the University of Exeter under the NERC GW4+ Doctoral Training Partnership (DTP) for September 2026 entry. The project explores how global warming influences the timing and behaviour of monsoon onset across regions such as Southern Africa, South America, and Asia. Working under the guidance of Dr Robin Chadwick, with additional supervisors from Exeter, Birmingham, Oxford, and UKCEH, the student will use climate observations and model simulations to identify common global processes affecting monsoon shifts. The programme provides advanced research training, cross-institution collaboration, and opportunities for specialist skills development, aligning with Exeter’s strengths in climate science and environmental research.
Program Details
- Position: Fully-funded PhD Position / Doctoral Researcher
- Institution: University of Exeter
- Department/Faculty: Department of Mathematics and Statistics
- Supervisor: Dr Robin Chadwick (Lead Supervisor)
- Location: Exeter, United Kingdom
- Start Date (Anticipated): September 2026
- Duration: 3.5 years
- Funding: Full studentship including tuition fees, annual tax-free stipend (£20,780 for 2026/27), project costs (£9,000), conference budget (£2,000) and training budget (£1,000)
- Working Hours: Full-time
- Required Degree/Diploma: First or Upper Second Class UK Honours degree or international equivalent (Lower Second considered with Master’s)
Research Focus/Area
- Climate change and monsoon dynamics
- Delayed monsoon onset
- Climate model simulations
- Observational climate analysis
- Regional monsoon systems (Africa, South America, Asia)
Eligibility & Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:
- First or Upper Second Class degree in a relevant subject
- Lower Second Class degree considered with a completed Master’s degree
- English language proficiency as per University of Exeter requirements
Preferred Qualifications:
- Research experience in climate science or related fields
- Strong academic background
- Skills in programming, climate modelling, or data analysis
Key Features of the Program
- High-quality research training across multiple partner universities
- Opportunities to work with supervisors from Exeter, Birmingham, Oxford and UKCEH
- Access to specialist courses, conferences, and training funds
- Collaborative and interdisciplinary environment
- Support for computing, fieldwork, and lab costs
Application Process
How to Apply:
Submit your application through the University of Exeter’s online portal. Upload all required documents in PDF format, named using the format: Surname – DocumentName.
Required Documents:
- CV
- DLTP Personal Statement (template provided by the university)
- Academic transcripts
- English language certificate (if applicable)
- Two academic references (to be emailed directly by referees if shortlisted)
Important Dates
- Applications Open: Now
- Deadline: 8 January 2026 (Midnight)
- Shortlisting: 9–23 January 2026
- Interviews: 2–6 March 2026
Where to Apply
- University Website: University of Exeter
- Official Notification: University of Exeter – Funding and Scholarships
- Application Portal: Apply Now (University of Exeter)
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