Astrobiology and Planetary Sciences

Astrobiology and the planetary sciences are rigorous interdisciplinary subjects.

These subjects build on physics, chemistry, biology and geosciences to answer fundamental questions about living matter:

* how is it formed?

* how does it vary and evolve in unison with planets and stars?

* how is it distributed across time and space?

Planetary scientists investigate the origin, diversity and behaviour of planets, moons, asteroids, comets, and solar systems. Together, these sciences offer a broad and satisfying perspective on our own place in the universe. In the context of space exploration, these sciences also have interesting policy, legal, and ethical implications.

On this programme you will develop:

* interdisciplinary skills and expertise

* confidence and autonomy in planning and executing research

* insight into contemporary debates

You will think critically about astrobiology and planetary science in their social contexts. You will discover how different scientific approaches address fundamental questions about life.

As a student on this programme you will be integrated into the UK Centre for Astrobiology. The Centre is one of the world's leading hubs for interdisciplinary astrobiology research. It has led and participated in many space missions and has reported significant discoveries.