Ecology, Evolution and Conservation Research

The MSc in Ecology, Evolution and Conservation Research at Imperial College London is a comprehensive and interdisciplinary programme designed to equip students with a deep understanding of the fundamental principles underpinning biodiversity, ecological processes, evolutionary mechanisms, and conservation strategies. This advanced degree combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills, preparing graduates for careers in research, environmental consultancy, conservation organizations, and policy making. The programme draws on Imperial’s strong expertise in biological sciences, environmental sciences, and research excellence, providing students with a cutting-edge education that addresses current global environmental challenges such as climate change, habitat loss, species extinction, and biological invasions. Students will engage with core topics including population dynamics, ecosystem functioning, genetic diversity, adaptive evolution, and conservation planning, supplemented by modules on research methods, data analysis, and scientific communication. The programme also emphasizes research design and experimental techniques through lab work, field studies, and collaborative projects, fostering critical thinking and analytical skills essential for scientific research. With access to state-of-the-art laboratories, extensive fieldwork opportunities, and a vibrant academic community, students are encouraged to undertake independent research projects on topics aligned with their interests. The curriculum aims to develop not only technical expertise but also transferable skills such as teamwork, project management, and effective communication of scientific findings to diverse audiences. Graduates of this programme are well-positioned to pursue doctoral research, work in environmental and conservation agencies, or contribute to policy development and sustainable resource management. Imperial College London's strong links with industry, government, and research institutions ensure students gain valuable insights into real-world applications of ecological and evolutionary research. Overall, this MSc offers a rigorous academic experience combined with practical training, aiming to foster innovative solutions for conserving the planet’s biodiversity for future generations.

You start the course with five one-week modules on core topics in ecology and evolution:

• Plant Community Ecology
• Speciation and the Evolution of Biodiversity
• Macroevolution and Micropaleontology
• Population Dynamics and Modelling
• Aquatic Resource Ecology

The first project starts in week 6 and lasts 20 weeks. Towards the end of your project you complete a two-week compulsory statistical computing course linked to the project write-up and data analysis.

The second project starts after Week 27 and finishes in September. The projects should be with different supervisors and chosen to represent two of the following general categories:

• Ecological Modelling and Population Management
• Bioinformatics and Evolutionary Analysis
• Molecular Ecology, Phylogenetics and Development (lab component)
• Ecology, Evolution or Conservation Field Research

Year One: All modules are compulsory Term one: All students attend induction days, followed by five one-week modules on core topics in Ecology and Evolution: Plant Community Ecology, Speciation and the Evolution of Biodiversity, Macroevolution and Micropaleontology, Population Dynamics and Modelling, and Aquatic Resource Ecology. Students are advised to start discussing possible research projects with appropriate academic staff as soon as possible. During week 6 projects are identified and background reading commences ready for the initiation of projects in week 7. Projects suggested by College staff or solicited from external Research Institutes and Companies are advertised to students in the MSc/MRes project book. The projects are conducted at Imperial College or, in part or in whole, at external research institutions or agencies in the UK or overseas. Where the projects are external, a member of Imperial College academic staff is assigned to advise and to monitor student progress. Project assessment is based on a written dissertation in the form of a scientific paper. All students have a viva on their project and other aspects of the course with the External Examiner, prior to the MRes Examination Board meeting in late September. Term Two: Project work continues until Week 26, but all students take a three week core course, Experimental Design and Statistics during weeks 22-25, and analyse their results during this course. Projects are submitted at the end of Week 26, followed by the project viva in Week 27. Students identify their second project and start background reading and planning after discussion with their chosen project supervisor. Students have the opportunity to participate in lectures and practicals running in the Ecology, Evolution and Conservation MSc if they so wish. Term Three: Second projects begin in Week 31 and are submitted during week 49. The procedures for supervision and assessment of projects follow those outlined for the first project. Students are interviewed by the external examiners in week 50 and allocated final marks by week 52. 

The minimum qualification for admission is normally an Upper Second Class Honours degree in a Science-based subject from an UK academic institution or an equivalent overseas qualification. All UK applicants (and where possible overseas applicants) are invited to Silwood Park for a site tour. Places are offered on the basis of written applications. Where an applicant has a lesser degree qualification but has at least 2 years work experience in a related discipline, a special cases for admission may be submitted to the GSLSM by the Course Director or Postgraduate Tutor. 

The MSc in Ecology, Evolution and Conservation Research at Imperial College London offers a range of financing options to support students throughout their studies. Tuition fees vary depending on the student's domicile; for international students, the fees are generally higher than those for UK residents. For the academic year 2023/2024, the tuition fee for international students was approximately £32,000, while UK students paid around £15,800. These figures are indicative and subject to change annually. Students are encouraged to explore scholarships, bursaries, and financial aid opportunities provided by Imperial College London and external organizations.

Imperial College London offers several funding opportunities specifically for postgraduate students. These include the Imperial College PhD Scholarship schemes, departmental scholarships, and competitive research council funding such as the UKRI (UK Research and Innovation). The college also participates in the Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan, which supports students from Commonwealth countries. Additionally, there are industry-sponsored scholarships and partnerships that students can benefit from, especially those engaged in research projects aligned with commercial or governmental interests.

Students are advised to search for external funding sources, including grants from environmental foundations, governmental agencies, and charitable organizations dedicated to conservation and ecological research. Many students finance their studies through a combination of personal savings, family support, scholarships, and part-time employment opportunities available during the course.

Imperial College London also provides guidance and workshops to help prospective and current students identify suitable funding sources and prepare competitive scholarship applications. It is recommended to apply early as many funding options have strict deadlines. Moreover, students should consider cost-of-living expenses in London, which can be substantial, and plan their finances accordingly to cover accommodation, living costs, study materials, and participation in fieldwork or internships.

International students might also explore sponsorships from their home countries or international agencies dedicated to support scholars in environmental sciences. Some students may qualify for loans or other financial arrangements offered through their home institutions or government programs.

In summary, while the college provides numerous internal scholarships and funding schemes, securing financial support requires proactive planning, early application, and exploring a variety of external sources. Prospective students should regularly check the official Imperial College London website and relevant external organizations for the latest updates on funding opportunities to ensure they can adequately finance their studies in ecology, evolution, and conservation research.

The MSc in Ecology, Evolution and Conservation Research at Imperial College London is a comprehensive programme designed to provide students with a deep understanding of the fundamental principles and contemporary issues in ecology, evolutionary biology, and conservation science. The programme integrates theoretical knowledge with practical research skills, equipping graduates with the expertise necessary to address complex environmental challenges and contribute to scientific advancements in biodiversity conservation and ecosystem management. Students will engage with a wide range of topics including population genetics, species interactions, habitat dynamics, biodiversity assessment, and conservation strategies. The curriculum often includes laboratory work, field-based research, data analysis, and modeling techniques, fostering a hands-on approach to scientific investigation. Teaching is delivered by internationally recognized experts and researchers affiliated with Imperial College London, ensuring access to cutting-edge knowledge and methodologies. The programme typically culminates in a research project or dissertation, where students can apply their skills to real-world problems, often in collaboration with conservation organizations, governmental agencies, or academic institutions. Graduates of this programme are well-prepared for careers in ecological research, environmental consultancy, policymaking, and conservation management. The programme also offers opportunities for further academic pursuit, including PhD studies. Imperial College London’s facilities, including laboratories, research centers, and field stations, support a vigorous research environment. Admission requirements usually include a relevant undergraduate degree in biology, environmental science, or a related field, along with evidence of research aptitude and scientific motivation. Students benefit from the college’s strong network of academic and professional contacts, opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration, and access to extensive resources in environmental science and ecology. Overall, the MSc in Ecology, Evolution and Conservation Research aims to produce graduates capable of contributing to the preservation and sustainable management of the natural world through rigorous scientific research and innovative solutions.