Dr. Chris Thorogood

Associate Professor

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Biography

Chris Thorogood is an Associate Professor at the University of Oxford, specializing in plant evolution, taxonomy, and conservation. His research focuses on biomimetics, where he explores the technological applications of biological adaptations. This includes examining the structural and functional properties of plants to identify potential applications in technology; for instance, using giant waterlilies as inspiration for offshore floating solar panel designs. In the field of evolution and taxonomy, he investigates fundamental processes such as evolution, speciation, adaptive radiation, and evolutionary convergence, particularly in carnivorous and parasitic plants. Thorogood's conservation efforts are notable; he is the founder of an international community aimed at developing, sharing, and deploying conservation practices for the Rafflesia, the world's largest flower. His work often involves collaboration with botanists in biodiversity hotspots worldwide, contributing to the discovery of new species.

Research Interests

Requirements for University of Oxford

Master Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3.7
IELTS
Listening
Required:7
Reading
Required:7
Writing
Required:7
Speaking
Required:7
Overall
Required:7.5
TOEFL
Listening
Required:22
Reading
Required:24
Writing
Required:24
Speaking
Required:25
Total
Required:110
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree in Politics, International Relations, Economics, History, Law, Philosophy or Sociology
Application Checklist
  • Three academic references
  • Official transcripts
  • CV/Resume
  • Statement of Purpose (1,000 words)
  • Two academic essays (2,000 words each)
Specialization Notes

Department of Politics and International Relations - Higher Level English requirement.