Research expertise
The University of Leeds is one of the largest research-intensive universities in the UK, offering a range of research degrees from Masters to PhDs (full-time or split-site), as well as professional doctorates. Our postgraduate researchers are a fundamental part of our vibrant research culture.
A global reputation
The results of the Research Excellence Framework 2021 identified that 90% of our submitted research has a quality rating of “world-leading” or "internationally excellent”.
We’re a member of the prestigious Russell Group of 24 research-intensive universities and are part of the Worldwide Universities Network of 23 research-intensive institutions spanning six continents.
Read more about our research and innovation
A research community
When you come to Leeds, you join a community of postgraduates engaged in world-class research across disciplines. You'll meet like-minded people, passionate about research, across the entire University. There are opportunities to attend University-wide seminars and events where you can network and discuss your work.
Our Doctoral College supports you throughout your postgraduate research journey, bringing together all the support services and opportunities to enhance your research, your development, and your overall experience.
The faculty graduate schools within the Doctoral College also support you and provide opportunities for you to interact across schools and departments through conferences, seminars and social events. Graduate schools have postgraduate research tutors who act as a key contact for you on everything from registration to examination.
Exciting collaborations
We bring together wide-ranging expertise to tackle large and complex global challenges. Many of our departments and schools collaborate through research centres and clusters.
We are part of the White Rose University Consortium, a strategic partnership between three of the UK's leading research universities of Leeds, Sheffield and York.
The University works closely with a range of partners, including:
- industry and business to develop commercial solutions
- charities and the health sector to increase understanding of health challenges
- government agencies and non-governmental organisations to provide expertise and influence policy
- academic colleagues nationally and internationally to achieve more together
Expert guidance
Your relationship with your supervisor is a key factor in your research degree. Your supervisors will be with you from the development of your research plan, through your thesis writing, to preparing you for the viva, the final stage of your PhD.
As a postgraduate researcher you will usually be assigned at least two academic supervisors with relevant specialist subject knowledge – your main supervisor and co-supervisor(s). They will support and encourage you, challenging your ideas, suggesting training and development, reviewing your progress and giving guidance and feedback on your work.
Our academics are actively engaged in leading research. Many also have widespread practical experience in consultancy and act as advisors to prominent national and international organisations.