Faculty of Environment, Science and Economy
We are one of the world’s best universities in interdisciplinary environment and sustainability, founded on strong fundamental disciplinary research and education. The faculty is home to ten departments in physical and environmental sciences, engineering and includes the globally recognised, triple accredited University of Exeter Business School.
For information on the research undertaken within our departments please click on the following the following department links: Computer Science, Earth and Environmental Science, Ecology and Conservation, Engineering, Geography, Mathematics and Statistic, Physics and Astronomy and the University of Exeter Business School.
We are committed to undertaking research that will help to tackle some of the biggest problems of the 21st century: modelling climate change, sustainable urban water supply, malaria diagnosis, new optical imaging techniques to treat brain disease and bomb-proof materials. Much of the research is interdisciplinary, with academics collaborating to explore topics in more depth.
The faculty brings together excellence in science, engineering, economics and business to help create a sustainable future world through transformative research, education and engagement. Our researchers play an active role across our interdisciplinary research institutes:
- The Environment and Sustainability Institute (ESI)
- Global Systems Institute
- Institute of Data Science and Artificial Intelligence
- Living Systems Institute
Application deadline midday Monday 1 December 2025
Research Projects
There are two opportunities to apply, either with your own research proposal or through one developed by our own faculty.
- Develop your own research proposal: We strongly encourage and welcome you to submit your own research proposal (see details in the 'How to Apply' section)
- Explore the selection of existing projects listed under the department sections below
If you are interested in one of the projects available, please contact the relevant supervisor to discuss your interest prior to submitting an application.
Please see the projects available for each department in the PDF documents below. If you wish to submit your own research project please find a suitable supervisor to support you with the application process.
- Department of Computer Science
- Department of Earth and Environmental Science
- Department of Ecology and Conservation
- Department of Engineering
- Department of Geography
- Department of Management (University of Exeter Business School)
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics
- Department of Physics and Astronomy
