Conduct an extensive doctoral study into ceramics, glasses or polymers within the internationally-recognised Materials and Engineering Research Institute (MERI).
Undertake a period of supervised study as part of the University’s vibrant research community.
Closely analyse ceramics, glasses or polymers – and their applications.
Conduct your experiments in cutting-edge MERI facilities.
Contribute to the acclaimed work of MERI researchers.

On this course, you'll undertake extensive study into a relevant subject within ceramics, glasses or polymer topics. At MERI you'll benefit from expert tutelage, cutting-edge facilities and a supportive environment. Your finished work will stand alongside widely-acclaimed MERI publications – a large proportion of which have been considered 'world leading' or 'internationally excellent'.

Work placements

A number of the PhD projects involve close cooperation with industrial partners, which may require periods of activity at their premises.

Live projects

When required, you can apply to national facilities to carry out large-scale, sophisticated experiments.

Networking opportunities

You’ll be able to participate in the MERI Research Colloquium each year – presenting a poster in your first year and an oral presentation in your second year. You’ll likely have similar opportunities to present at research conferences in the UK and abroad.

All our courses are designed around a set of key principles based on engaging you with the world, collaborating with others, challenging you to think in new ways, and providing you with a supportive environment in which you can thrive.

As this is a research course, most of your work will be carried out independently. You’ll benefit from the support and expertise of your supervisory team – including a Director of Studies and second supervisor who have specific interest in your chosen subject area. This may include auxetic materials, biomaterials, bullet-proof and abrasion-resistant ceramics, energy reduction in glass manufacture, medical devices, nuclear waste containment, polymers and composites, and thermoelectric oxides.

You learn through

• independent research
• mentoring with your supervisory team
• laboratory training
• research and teacher training
• ethical research training
• participation in the MERI Research Colloquium 
• presenting posters and oral presentations

Previous graduates of this course have gone on to work for

• Unilever
• Diamond Light Source
• Schlumberger
• Akzo Nobel
• GSK
• Pfizer
• Fisher Scientific
• Agilent
• Sheffield Hallam University

 

All applicants should hold a strong undergraduate degree (2.1 or above) and/or a relevant masters qualification (or expectation of the same).

All applicants must submit a completed postgraduate application form including a 1500 word research proposal.

You are encouraged to find out more about our staff and their current research to inform the development of your research proposal and to ensure it aligns with our research themes. Before submitting your proposal, please contact the member(s) of staff listed against the relevant research theme.

Applicants are required to give a short 10–15 minute presentation followed by an interview. Interview panel members will include the head of research degrees for the relevant research area or centre, a local postgraduate research tutor and a prospective director of studies.

Where English is not your first language, you must show evidence of English language ability to the following minimum level of proficiency: an overall IELTS score of 6.5 or above, with at least 6.0 in each component or an accepted equivalent. Please note that your test score must be current, i.e. within the last two years.