Dr. Oliver Shorttle

Professor

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Biography

Professor Oliver Shorttle is jointly appointed between the Institute of Astronomy and the Department of Earth Sciences at the University of Cambridge. His research focuses on the geochemical cycling and planetary evolution of rocky planets outside our solar system, known as extrasolar planets. He studies the chemical dynamic processes occurring in planetary interiors and crusts through fieldwork and geochemical analysis modeling. Shorttle is particularly interested in exoplanet identification and the application of geological knowledge to refine our understanding of these new worlds. He has contributed to the identification of over four thousand exoplanets, which has transformed our comprehension of planetary abundances and types, revealing a spectrum of geological diversity, including lava planets and ocean planets. His work on understanding the composition, structure, and chemical cycles of these bodies aims to uncover their potential habitability. Assembling geological and astronomical observations to constrain the possible habitability of distant planets is a complex exercise that requires collaboration across the geological, biological, and astronomical sciences.

Research Interests

Requirements for University of Cambridge

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:25
Reading
Required:25
Writing
Required:25
Speaking
Required:25
Total
Required:110
Prerequisites
UK Bachelor's Degree with good Upper Second Class Honours or international equivalent Background in international relations, politics, law, economics, security or history is a definite asset
Application Checklist
  • Two academic references
  • Official transcripts
  • CV/Resume
  • Personal statement (approx 500 words)
  • Research proposal (1-2 pages/500 words)
  • Application fee (£50)
Specialization Notes

Standard postgraduate requirements for Department of Politics and International Studies (POLIS) and related humanities departments.