Tropical Forest Ecology

The MSc in Tropical Forest Ecology at Imperial College London offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to understanding the complex dynamics of tropical forests and their vital role in global ecosystems. This programme is designed for students interested in the science, conservation, and sustainable management of tropical forests, providing them with advanced knowledge of forest ecology, biodiversity, ecosystem services, and the impacts of human activities. Throughout the course, students will explore key topics such as forest succession, plant-animal interactions, climate change effects, carbon storage, and conservation strategies. The programme emphasizes practical skills through fieldwork and data analysis, enabling students to conduct research projects in tropical forest environments. Delivered by world-renowned experts in ecology, environmental science, and conservation biology, the MSc combines theoretical learning with applied case studies to prepare graduates for careers in environmental consultancy, research, policy development, and sustainable resource management. The curriculum includes modules on tropical forest dynamics, remote sensing, climate change adaptation, and biodiversity conservation, fostering a deep understanding of the ecological processes sustaining tropical forests. Students will also have opportunities to engage in collaborative projects and internships with research institutions and conservation organizations. By the end of the programme, graduates will possess the scientific expertise, technical skills, and practical experience necessary to contribute to the preservation and sustainable use of tropical forest ecosystems worldwide. This MSc programme ultimately aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills essential for addressing some of the most pressing environmental challenges related to tropical forests in the 21st century.

The classed based modules develop research skills and background knowledge of models used in tropical forest ecology, with topics such as:

• Hydrology and meteorology
• Biogeochemistry
• Plant and animal ecology
• GIS/environmental data
• Statistics and programming
• Metabolic ecology
• Science communication

Field skills will be taught in a three-week field course held in Sabah, Malaysia. You will be trained in the taxonomic identification of plants, vertebrates and invertebrates and will obtain practical experience in designing, collecting and managing meteorological, hydrological, biogeochemical and biodiversity field data.

You will spend most of the year working on a research project in your chosen area, accounting for more than half of your work during the year. We encourage you to develop project ideas with supervisors in tropical nations and will work with you to find contacts and placements that make this a smooth process.

The course consists of class based teaching, field work and a major research project.

Term 1
Week 1 Registration, induction and introductory workshops Week 2 Statistics and programming module Week 3 Experimental design and advanced statistics Week 4 GIS/Environmental data module Week 5 Scientific writing and science communication Week 6 Forests as linked ecological systems Practical assignment Week 7 Climatology Week 8 Hydrology Week 9 Biogeochemistry Week 10 Community ecology Week 11 Metabolic ecology Science communication assignment  Week 12 Private revision, grant proposal Week 13 Private revision, grant proposal Week 14 Private revision, grant proposal.

Term 2
Week 15 Field safety, project + data plan Grant proposal  Week 16 Field course: Sampling methods and taxonomy module Week 17 Field course: Hydrology and meteorology modules Hydrology and meteorology practicals  Week 18 Field course: Biogeochemistry and community ecology modules Biogeochemistry and community practicals; taxonomy test  Week 19 Research project Week 20 Research project Week 21 Research project Week 22 Research project Week 23 Research project Week 24 Research project Week 25 Research project Week 26 Research project Week 27 Research project Week 28 Research project Week 29 Research project.

Term 3
Week 30 Research project Week 31 Research project Week 32 Research project Week 33 Research project Week 34 Mid-project report Press release Week 35 Mid-term viva and feedback Week 36 Research project Week 37 Research project Week 38 Research project 

For Master’s Programmes – June –Sept: 
Week 39 Research project Week 40 Research project Week 41 Research project Week 42 Research project Week 43 Research project Week 44 Research project Week 45 Research project Week 46 Research project Week 47 Research project Week 48 Research project Week 49 Private study Week 50 Private study Week 51 MRes conference, oral examination, results announced

We expect the MRes course to be attractive to students with a broad range of scientific degrees (e.g. biology, environmental science, engineering, physics and geography). We expect the course to appeal both to students who have just finished their undergraduate degree, and wanting to acquire skills relevant to a career in tropical ecology, as well as to those with a few years of relevant work experience wishing to move to the next level. We aim also to attract professionals working within NGOs or research institutes, who wish to develop their skills in tropical forest ecology research. The part time option for the course will be particularly attractive to these candidates. Candidates will generally be expected to hold a good first degree in an appropriate subject (at least  an upper second) from a UK university or an equivalent qualification if obtained outside the UK. Candidates with extensive relevant work experience but a lower degree will be considered for the course as special cases, based on experience that these students can be very high achievers if carefully screened. In line with Imperial College policy, students whose native language is not English and who did not undertake their undergraduate degree in English will be expected to pass relevant tests (e.g. British Council IELTS test at grade 6.5 or above, with a score of 5 in writing. A TOEFL qualification with a score >600, with a writing (TWE) element of not less than 4.5, is an acceptable alternative). 

The Tropical Forest Ecology MSc program at Imperial College London offers students a comprehensive education that prepares them for careers in forest conservation, research, and sustainable management. Funding options for prospective students encompass a variety of sources, including government scholarships, university bursaries, external grants, and financial aid schemes. Imperial College London provides several internal scholarships specifically aimed at supporting postgraduate students, such as the Imperial College Research Scholarships, which are awarded based on academic merit and research potential. Additionally, students are encouraged to apply for external funding opportunities like the Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan, Chevening Scholarships, and international organization grants, which can provide full or partial tuition fee coverage, living expenses, and research costs.

Students can also explore fieldwork grants and travel bursaries which support research-related expenses, critical for tropical forest ecology studies that often involve extensive fieldwork in remote locations. For international students, there are specific scholarships to ease the financial burden, including the Imperial College President’s Scholarships and funds dedicated to students from developing countries. Part-time work opportunities within the university and the local community may also help students supplement their income during their studies. Furthermore, the program's strong links with environmental agencies, NGOs, and research institutions open avenues for funded internships or collaborative projects that may include stipend support.

Overall, funding for the Tropical Forest Ecology MSc at Imperial College London is diverse; prospective students are encouraged to consult the university’s financial aid office and scholarship webpages early in their application process to identify suitable financial support options and ensure timely application submissions.

The Tropical Forest Ecology program at Imperial College London offers students an in-depth understanding of the complex relationships within tropical forest ecosystems. This postgraduate course is designed to equip students with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary to assess, manage, and conserve tropical forests, which are among the most biodiverse and ecologically important environments on Earth. The program focuses on key topics such as forest structure and function, biodiversity assessment, ecological processes, and the impacts of human activity and climate change on tropical forests. Students will explore methodologies for field data collection, analysis, and interpretation, enabling them to conduct impactful research and contribute to sustainable management of forest resources. The curriculum often integrates coursework in ecology, conservation biology, remote sensing, GIS, and environmental policy, providing a multidisciplinary perspective vital for addressing global environmental challenges. Students may engage in field trips and practical projects in tropical regions or simulated environments, fostering hands-on experience. The program is suitable for students aiming for careers in research, environmental consultancy, policy development, or working with conservation organizations. Imperial College London’s strong emphasis on research-led learning ensures that students are exposed to the latest scientific developments and innovations. Graduates of this program will leave equipped with critical thinking skills, comprehensive ecological knowledge, and practical experience necessary for tackling the pressing issues of tropical forest preservation and sustainable use. The program benefits from Imperial College’s extensive network of research institutes and collaborations with international conservation agencies, providing opportunities for networking and career advancement in the field of tropical forest ecology.