This program trains the next generation of geographic data and quantitative social scientists who are interested in understanding how to use data science and other quantitative methods to tackle pressing geospatial challenges in social and natural environments. Examples of geographic data-driven methods include but are not limited to 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. Particularly, potential supervisors at the University of Bristol have expertise in policy, demography, social inequality, social geography, sustainability, human mobility, digital economy, cities, health, climate science, education, and so on. 

All PhD programmes in Bristol are delivered via the Bristol Doctoral College and general information can be found on their website and please also see the University's Postgraduate study pages.

We regularly admit students who already have funding or are willing to self-fund their studies. For applications we ask that prospective students provide a research proposal on a topic they are interested in studying. For examples of topics that are currently being undertaken see our Scholarships page.

This list is not exhaustive, so if you have another idea or project in mind, please contact potential supervisors or the postgraduate admissions tutors to discuss and develop further.