Select Year of Entry
Welcome to MPhil/PhD Forensic Science
Research students in Forensic Science have the opportunity to work alongside a multidisciplinary team in the School of Chemistry, and can benefit from strong links with industry practitioners.
Students have the opportunity to engage in the work of the Forensic Analysis Research Group, to develop innovative methods and techniques to assist in solving crime and casework-related issues. The team are currently engaged in high-profile studies including collaborative projects with the Centre for Applied Science and Technology at the UK Home Office.
Students have access to a range of training programmes to support them in their independent investigations, and an experienced supervisory team are on hand to offer advice and direction. Ongoing research projects in the School are focused on the chemical analysis of legal highs, DNA analysis in forensic and archaeological contexts, and forensic toxicology.
Welcome to MPhil/PhD Forensic Science
Research students in Forensic Science have the opportunity to work alongside a multidisciplinary team in the School of Chemistry, and can benefit from strong links with industry practitioners.
Students have the opportunity to engage in the work of the Forensic Analysis Research Group, to develop innovative methods and techniques to assist in solving crime and casework-related issues. The team are currently engaged in high-profile studies including collaborative projects with the Centre for Applied Science and Technology at the UK Home Office.
Students have access to a range of training programmes to support them in their independent investigations, and an experienced supervisory team are on hand to offer advice and direction. Ongoing research projects in the School are focused on the chemical analysis of legal highs, DNA analysis in forensic and archaeological contexts, and forensic toxicology.
How You Study
Due to the nature of postgraduate research programmes, the vast majority of students' time will be spent in independent study and research. Students will have meetings with their academic supervisors, however the regularity of these will vary depending on their own individual requirements, subject area, staff availability, and the stage of programme.
How You Study
Due to the nature of postgraduate research programmes, the vast majority of students' time will be spent in independent study and research. Students will have meetings with their academic supervisors, however the regularity of these will vary depending on their own individual requirements, subject area, staff availability, and the stage of programme.
Research Areas and Topics
Our main research areas include:
- Drug analysis
- Explosives analysis
- Fingerprinting science
- Dye and pigment analysis
- Forensic anthropology
- Spectroscopic techniques (including Raman) and separation science
- Surface analysis.
Recent research projects include:
- Chemical analysis of fingerprints
- Analysis of legal highs
- Development of sensors for forensic applications
- Development of colloids and Surface Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (SERS).
How you are assessed
A research degree is usually awarded based on the quality of a student's thesis and their ability in an oral examination (viva voce) to present and successfully defend their chosen research topic to a group of academics. Students are also expected to demonstrate how their research findings have contributed to knowledge or developed existing theory or understanding.
How you are assessed
A research degree is usually awarded based on the quality of a student's thesis and their ability in an oral examination (viva voce) to present and successfully defend their chosen research topic to a group of academics. Students are also expected to demonstrate how their research findings have contributed to knowledge or developed existing theory or understanding.
Application and Enrolment Information
The key to a successful research programme is to find a research subject that you are passionate about, and a supervisory team that have the expertise in this area. The first thing that all students should do is contact a member of staff who works in an area that you are interested in.
Please visit the School of Chemistry staff pages to identify potential academic supervisors:
https://www.lincoln.ac.uk/home/chemistry/staffcontactlist/
You are invited to contact the supervisors that you feel are best suited to your research area to discuss the process further.
Enrolment Dates
To support your experience within the postgraduate research community, new students are encouraged to enrol in October, February, or May. However, applications are welcome at any point throughout the year, and enrolment can also take place at any relevant point.
In addition to meeting peers across the University who are starting their research programme at the same time, there is access to a central training programme designed around the first three months of study, and targeted support aligned to each stage of the postgraduate research journey. Alternative enrolment dates may be agreed with your supervisor on an individual basis.
Entry Requirements 2022-23
First or upper second class honours degree or an MSc in a relevant subject.
Entry Requirements 2023-24
First or upper second class honours degree or an MSc in a relevant subject.
Fees and Funding
For eligible students, there are more ways than ever before to fund your postgraduate study, whether you want to do a taught or research course. For those wishing to undertake a Master's course, UK students can apply for a loan as a contribution towards the course and living costs. Loans are also available to those who wish to undertake doctoral study. The University offers a number of scholarships and funded studentships for those interested in postgraduate study. Learn how Master's and PhD loans, scholarships, and studentships can help you fund your studies on our Postgraduate Fees and Funding pages.
Fees and Funding
For eligible students, there are more ways than ever before to fund your postgraduate study, whether you want to do a taught or research course. For those wishing to undertake a Master's course, UK students can apply for a loan as a contribution towards the course and living costs. Loans are also available to those who wish to undertake doctoral study. The University offers a number of scholarships and funded studentships for those interested in postgraduate study. Learn how Master's and PhD loans, scholarships, and studentships can help you fund your studies on our Postgraduate Fees and Funding pages.
Career Opportunities
Students have the opportunity to develop the in-depth knowledge and expertise necessary for careers in and across the broad spectrum of chemistry-related industries. This programme aims to provide foundation for further research or a career in teaching or academia.
Postgraduate Events
Find out more about how postgraduate study can help further your career, develop your knowledge, or even prepare you to start your own business at one of our postgraduate events.
Find out MoreDiscover More

Research at Lincoln
Our research themes cover a unique set of areas, reflecting our role as a civic university and our aspirations to become thought leaders.

Studentships
There are opportunities to get involved in exciting research projects by applying for a studentship.

Supporting your Research
Support is available across the University, offering a friendly, creative, and academically challenging research environment.