Choosing to do your doctorate at Bath is a decision well made. You will join academics and researchers of international reputation, known for the originality and significance of their work. You will have a host of opportunities for intellectual stimulation, to nurture your love of discovery. And you will have the help you need to equip you with the skills to succeed in your chosen career path.

During the current pandemic and time of uncertainty you may have some questions about how you can begin your research work. We are doing everything we can to make sure that your start at Bath is as welcoming as possible, using online alternatives if we're unable to run our welcome and training events in person. We will continue to update you as soon as we can, based on the latest UK Government guidance on returning to work and opening the campus.

We're preparing for a number of scenarios so you can access the research environment and support you need. We’re working to create a University experience that’s as close as possible to your expectations when you applied, and to ensure the quality of your research experience is maintained. We're keen to offer as much in-person interaction as we can safely deliver, while maintaining the safety of all of our students and staff.

We intend to be open for the next academic year with students on campus. As a post-graduate researcher, you will have your own unique start date and you should contact your supervisor by email to discuss plans for starting your PhD, and how you will work together as the situation evolves.

We also recognise that you may be unable to come to Bath in the September due to health reasons or travel restrictions, so you can start your programme remotely if required. If you are unable to come to Bath, please speak to your supervisor so that you can discuss how this might be planned. We hope these arrangements will make life a little easier for you, so you can enrol in our high quality programmes without having to worry about whether you will be able to come to Bath in person at the start of term.

Best wishes for your research studies here at the University of Bath.

Prof Cathryn Mitchell Professor and Academic Director (Doctoral College)