Culture and Evolution PhD

Brunel University of London

This course focuses on cultural variation in, and evolutionary origins of, psychology and behaviour - integration of proximate and ultimate perspectives, across levels of analysis from individual biology and personality, through group and social processes to the broader culture. Our research brings together outstanding evolutionary, cross-cultural and other psychologists and includes evolutionary approaches to human psychology such as human behavioural ecology categorised in these three strands- Relationships - E.g. interpersonal attraction and mate choice, relationship maintenance and satisfaction, jealousy etc. Also intergroup relations (between cultures and ethnic groups). Morality - E.g. what is considered right and wrong, political beliefs, views on resource distribution etc. Conflict & Cooperation - E.g. interpersonal and intergroup, sexual conflict and intrasexual competition, sources of conflict such as inequality etc. You will receive tailored careers support during your PhD and for up to three years after you complete your research at Brunel. We encourage you to actively engage in career planning and managing your personal development right from the start of your research, even (or perhaps especially) if you don't yet have a career path in mind. Our careers provision includes online information and advice, one-to-one consultations and a range of events and workshops. The Professional Development Centre runs a varied programme of careers events throughout the academic year. These include industry insight sessions, recruitment fairs, employer pop-ups and skills workshops.