Doctoral candidates pursue original research with the goal of making a significant contribution to knowledge in, and understanding of, their chosen field. As a postgraduate researcher you can become an integral part of our research community, working with leading academics whose research has gone on to impact business, policy, and society on an international scale.
There is an emphasis on your own independent critical investigation, supervised by an experienced team of academics. You can benefit from an active research community in the School, and research groups with which to align your study.
As a research student, you will have access to a structured programme of training supported by our Doctoral School. This aims to assist you in the development of the practical and critical skills which are necessary for this programme and are transferable to your career. There may be opportunities to participate in undergraduate teaching following relevant training.
How You Study
Students are assigned a supervision team consisting of a Director of Studies (first supervisor) and usually one second supervisor. Students are expected to work independently on their research projects under the advice and direction of the supervision team.
Due to the nature of postgraduate research programmes, the vast majority of your time will be spent in independent study and research. You will have meetings with your academic supervisors, however the regularity of these will vary depending on your own individual requirements, subject area, staff availability, and the stage of your programme.
How You Are Assessed
Students are required to demonstrate adequate and appropriate progress usually on an annual basis. A PhD is awarded based on the quality of your thesis and your ability in an oral examination (viva voce) to present and successfully defend your chosen research topic to a group of academics. You are also expected to demonstrate how your research findings have contributed to knowledge or developed existing theory or understanding.
Career and Personal Development
The University of Lincoln is part of the Northern Advanced Research Training Initiative (NARTI), a network of research-led universities providing specialist advanced training through the facilitation of events, retreats, and conferences to establish networks to share cross-regional expertise.
Throughout the research degree, students are encouraged to take part in all activities associated with developing a research career. The Researcher Development Programme from the Doctoral School considers career development pathways and students are encouraged to maintain training and development logs throughout their studies.

In some cases students will have the opportunity to support undergraduate students and experience seminar teaching. To support this, the University of Lincoln offers a range of teaching and learning activities and courses, and postgraduate students involved in teaching are encouraged to actively to take up these opportunities for development.