The main aim of the programme is to train people to develop the ability the undertake independent, innovative and critical scientific research in line with the areas on the programme.

In accordance with the cross-cutting and specific activities on the programme, doctorands will learn:

• The latest advances in the field of marine ecology by attending research seminars organised by institutions that collaborate with the programme
• To communicate their contributions in written and spoken English in scientific publications, symposia, conferences, etc.
• To develop their activity in accordance with the ethical principles and integrity that should govern any scientific research
• Basic concepts to enact the transfer of knowledge, technology and innovation to the business sector
• To collect data on oceanography research campaigns and sampling
• To carry out critical reviews to determine the latest developments in the topic and hypotheses for study in developing the thesis
• To include the collected data, analyse and interpret them in a global context, thus broadening the field of knowledge
• To integrate the new acquired knowledge into the sustainable development goals for marine biodiversity
• To transfer new knowledge to society in the best way possible through communicating and developing scientific culture.

A PhD is required to be accredited in the different categories of university lecturer and to undertake a professional career in academe. It is also required to become a researcher at different scientific institutions and public bodies that develop knowledge and advise public administrations on marine issues.

In the private sector, the analytical ability and decision-making skills acquired during the PhD are highly valued in management positions.

In the public sphere, graduates will be able to undertake professional activities at different universities, public research bodies (IEO, CSIC), and national and regional administrations. In the private sphere, careers may be developed in different contexts, such as at environmental advisory firms or aquaculture enterprises.

Stays undertaken on the PhD programme by doctoral students

Legislation requires that official Spanish degree programmes receive a positive assessment from the National Agency for Quality Assessment and Accreditation (ANECA, by its Spanish acronym). This process is known as verification, and it serves to ensure that education programmes are properly designed to provide the competencies and reach the learning goals around which the programmes are built.

The European Higher Education Area requires that there be a system in place to ensure the quality of degree programmes.

The doctorate programme is subject to constant assessment and improvement processes that guarantee that it maintains a certain level of prestige and renown in Europe. You can see the results of the assessment processes in the results section.