We use cookies on reading.ac.uk to improve your experience, monitor site performance and tailor content to you
Read our cookie policy to find out how to manage your cookie settings
As a PhD student in our Department, you will be part of a stimulating research environment. Our researchers work on world-leading projects that have real impact.
95% of our research is of international standing (Research Excellence Framework (REF 2021), combining 4*, 3* and 2* submissions – Classics.)
Our strengths in established approaches to the ancient world are coupled with expertise spanning Egyptian and Anatolian studies, early Islam, ancient linguistics, epigraphy, the reception of antiquity in the modern world, and more.
As a PhD student, you’ll join our community of supportive and highly productive researchers, meeting like-minded students.
You can run your own work-in-progress seminars and participate in our weekly research seminars, as well as annual conferences that draw scholars from around the world.
The Department of Classics holds a variety of historical resources of international importance, which you'll have access to during your studies.
These resources include our Ure Museum of Greek Archaeology, which is based in the Department.
The wider University has two other on-site museums, as well as – a substantial collection of rare books, archives and manuscripts that we encourage students to explore during their studies.
We also have strong links with the Centre for Hellenic Studies, Department of Archaeology, Graduate Centre for Medieval Studies, British School at Athens, and British School at Rome.
Lucy Fletcher
PhD in Classics graduate
Our academics are acknowledged experts at the forefront of their disciplines and passionate about conveying their expertise. They offer postgraduate research supervision across the full spectrum of ancient history, Greek and Latin language and linguistics, literature, archaeology, epigraphy, art and culture.
You'll receive support from our Department as well as the Doctoral and Researcher College, which is the ÒÁÈËÖ±²¥app's hub for all doctoral activity.
Join a supportive, dynamic research community. Our doctoral students present their work at international conferences and organise their own seminars, workshops and social events.
Prof Emma Aston
Head of the Department of Classics