Research projects can be carried out in virtually any area of chemistry as long as a suitable project and supervisor can be allocated, meaning you can specialise in your own specific area of interest. You will work under the guidance of an academic supervisor who is expert in that particular field, and alongside other members of the research group including academics, post-doctoral researchers as well as fellow postgraduate students. You will have 12 months of writing up period. The maximum length of thesis should be 60,000 words. Assessment will be in the form of thesis and oral examination. During your time at York, you will have the opportunity to develop a wide range of skills, which will support not only your studies, but also prepare you for the world of work beyond your research degree. The Researcher Development Team offer a wide range of training under the Research Development Framework, and the Careers Service provides a wealth of guidance and opportunities to develop the types of skills employers are looking for.