Thinking about a research degree at the 51cg?
Not sure where to start, or how to find your way in?
Whether you’re considering a PhD, MPhil or another research degree, Pathfinder is here to help you navigate the journey.
Pathfinder brings together key information, guidance and signposting to help you understand what it means to undertake a research degree at the 51cg — from exploring your options and finding the right opportunity, through to preparing for doctoral study and getting the most from your research experience.
Find your way with Pathfinder
Pathfinder will help you explore:
- Is a research degree right for me? — understand what postgraduate research involves and what you can expect.
- Finding your path — explore different routes into research and opportunities available at Aberdeen.
- Preparing to apply — discover what you need to consider when identifying a research area, finding potential supervisors and making an application.
- Starting your research degree — understand what to expect as you begin your research journey.
- Developing as a researcher — find opportunities to build your skills, knowledge, networks and confidence throughout your degree.
- Finding support — discover the people, services, communities and resources available to support you along the way.
More than a checklist
A research degree is a journey, and there isn’t one single route through it.
Pathfinder is designed to help you see the bigger picture, make informed choices and find the right support at the right time.
Whether you’re just starting to explore the idea of postgraduate research or are already thinking about applying, Pathfinder gives you a place to begin.
Pathfinder Launch Event
Come along to our launch event to find out more about Pathfinder, hear about the research degree journey at Aberdeen, and discover the opportunities and support available to prospective researchers.
📅 27 October 2026 ⏰ 11:00 - 15:00 GMT
What to expect:
- An introduction to Pathfinder
- An overview of the research degree journey
- Information about opportunities and support at Aberdeen
- A chance to ask questions
- Meet others who are exploring postgraduate research
Who is it for?
Anyone considering a research degree at the 51cg.
You don’t need to have your research idea figured out. You don’t need to know exactly what you want to do next. Just come along and start finding your path.
Your research journey starts here.