Research in natural sciences
The Faculty of Natural Sciences research tackles global challenges in issues such as food security, changing environments, behaviour and evolution, digital economies and biodiversity.
We’re internationally renowned for our natural science research that explores the complex interrelationships between human behaviours, technologies, and biological, environmental and aquatic systems.
Find out more about our postgraduate research in natural sciences.
Research areas
PhD opportunities in Natural Sciences
We offer a vibrant, supportive environment for postgraduate researchers in natural sciences. Take a closer look at the subject areas we offer PhD supervision in and find out how to apply.
Biological and Environmental Sciences
Research Spotlights
Research Spotlight
Saving Europe's freshwaters
Find out how our research has been critical to implementing major new policies to repair tens of thousands of water bodies across Europe.
Research Spotlight
Institute of Aquaculture research
Our Institute of Aquaculture's priorities reflect a global interest in understanding how aquaculture can support the rapidly increasing human population without depleting wild-fish stocks.
News
Diversifying fish species and sources provide a flexible pathway to food and nutrition security
Scientists from the University of Stirling’s Institute of Aquaculture and WorldFish publish findings from their latest study on pond polyculture.
Climate key to determining dead plant decomposition and predicting carbon emissions
A new study from the University of Stirling, published in Nature Ecology & Evolution, has found that climate is the dominant driver in determining how quickly dead plants decompose, allowing scientists to make more accurate predictions about carbon emissions and climate change globally.
Events
Postgraduate On-campus Open Day - 29 March 2023
University of Stirling, Stirling, FK9 4LALearn more about our diverse range of Masters courses and PhD opportunities, explore our stunning campus, and spend invaluable time with our staff and students to get a taste of what life at Stirling is really like.