PhD in Geographic Data Science
We have a large and vibrant postgraduate community with over 100 researchers. Over half of our postgraduate research students are international. The quality of Bristol Geography's research was confirmed by the last Research Excellence Framework (REF 2021). Bristol's School of Geographical Sciences ranked first for Geography in the UK Research Excellence Framework for the fifth REF cycle in a row. Bristol Geography offers an exceptional academic environment for your PhD research.
About the Geographic Data Science PhD
This program trains the next generation of geographic data and quantitative social scientists. You will be interested in using data science and other quantitative methods to tackle pressing geospatial challenges in social and natural environments. Examples of geographic data-driven methods include: statistical methods; machine learning; artificial intelligence; GIS; earth observation and social sensing; cartography and data visualization; data infrastructure and management; and causal inference. Geospatial challenges can be broadly interpreted as any problems that involve using geospatial data.
How do I begin?
You can contact any member of academic staff whose research interests match your proposed topic. You should email them a draft proposal (around 1,000 words) and a CV.
Please visit the Quantitative Spatial Science research group and our Planetary Urban Science Lab websites to explore our expertise.
For more background information about studying for a PhD at Bristol see the Bristol Doctoral College and the University's Postgraduate study pages.
How do I apply?
Full details on the application process, including documents required, language requirements, and fees can be found in the how to apply section.
What funding is available?
When submitting your PhD application please state which scheme you would like to apply for. You can apply to multiple funding schemes with the same PhD application.
South West Doctoral Training Partnership (SWDTP) Advanced Quantitative Methods
Geographic Data Science applicants are eligible to apply for the Advanced Quantitative Methods pathway for SWDTP funding.
Please visit the SWDTP website for full details of this scheme.
Application is a two-step process.
University of Bristol deadline: 12:00 noon Wednesday 16th December 2026.
If successful at this stage applicants will be invited to submit to the SWDTP. SWDTP deadline: 12:00 noon on Tuesday 12 January 2027.
Bristol-China Scholarship Council (CSC)
Please see the CSC webpages for details.
Deadline: 12 noon (UK time) on Monday 30 November 2026.
University of Bristol PGR Scholarship
The School of Geographical Sciences has up to two University of Bristol Scholarships for either home or international students commencing their PhD in September 2027.
These scholarships, available for a period of up to 4 years, cover tuition fees and a stipend at the UKRI amount. There is also an allocated amount of funds for research and training expenses per year.
Please make sure to read the admissions statement and other application information on the website before applying.
Deadline: 12:00 noon (GMT) Monday 18th January 2027.
School of Geographical Sciences PhD Scholarship
As part of our commitment to an inclusive and representative student community, we are also offering a specific PhD scholarship for applicants of Black and mixed Black heritage eligible for home fees. If you are eligible for this award and would like to be considered for it, please contact the PGR Director franklin.ginn@bristol.ac.uk.
For more information
Admissions queries: uob-pgradmissions@bristol.ac.uk
PhD programme queries: Dr Ce Zhang (ce.zhang@bristol.ac.uk), AQM Pathway Lead