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"Academic staff in the Department are extremely approachable and their willingness to share their expertise has been instrumental in helping me get to grips with concepts from cell biology to ice physics."

 

 

 

Overview & Expectations

Up to 40 students are admitted to PhD studies in Materials Science each academic year. The majority begin in October, but a small number are admitted in January and April.

Each student is assigned a principal supervisor from among the academic staff working in their area(s) of research.  Students are initially registered for a 'Probationary PhD'.  During their first year they must pass assessment tests for two of the in-depth courses offered by the Department.  In their first year they must also prepare a poster on their research, or the general area of research interest, and give a research presentation towards the end of their second year of study.  Students are also expected to attend seminars given by members of the University and experts from outside, and external conferences.

Requirements

Students should have achieved at least an upper second honours degree prior to admission and a Masters level qualification (or overseas equivalent).  The Department will take into consideration academic results, content of references, and prior relevant research or work experience when deciding whether or not to offer a place.  Applicants should identify potential supervisors, and provide a short project description, in the application form, so that their papers can be considered by appropriate members of academic staff. Candidates will be interviewed by telephone or Zoom.  It is important to note that limitations on space and equipments and research facilities available mean that we cannot always make an offer, even to a well-qualified applicant.

Research Projects

Prospective applicants are welcome to make contact with academic staff to discuss the research opportunities available.  Proposed research project titles and summaries may also be advertised on the websites of each research group, which can be consulted prior to making contact with academic staff.  Our research activities are summarised on our website.