MPhil and PhD students are able to conduct independent research into an area of psychology of their choice and produce an extended thesis with guidance from two/three academic supervisors who have specialist knowledge of the subject area. Students can also receive training in the research methods relevant for their project and are expected to contribute to the School's research environment. The PhD is the most advanced research degree in psychology. It is particularly suitable for students who want to pursue an academic career but it also gives a broad range of career opportunities. Students are usually enrolled in an MPhil/PhD degree in their first year and then transfer to a PhD degree at the start of their second year. The School's active research base ensures academic staff are involved in current debates and that they are up-to-date with emerging developments in psychology. Research in the School is organised in three research groups (Forensic and Clinical Psychology, Perception, Action, and Cognition, Development and Social Behaviour) and two research centres (Autism Research Innovation Centre and Lincoln Cleep Centre).