Undertake doctoral studies in the highly-regarded Materials and Engineering Research Institute (MERI), joining a thriving academic community.
Undertake doctoral research in the diverse field of materials and fluid flow modelling as part of the University’s vibrant research community.
Learn advanced techniques with cutting-edge technology and expert tutelage.
Contribute to the acclaimed work of MERI researchers.

This course allows you to undertake research into a specific area of materials and fluid flow modelling. This varied subject encompasses everything from liquid crystals and polymers to thermodynamics. Your work will join extremely well-regarded MERI publications – a high proportion of which are considered 'world leading' or 'internationally excellent'.

Work placements

Various doctoral projects involve close cooperation with industrial partners, which may require periods of activity at their premises.

Networking opportunities

You’ll be part of the university's community of researchers, with the opportunity to attend and/or contribute to a range of discipline, college and university-wide presentations, training and conferences.

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 a second supervisor who have specific interest in your chosen subject area. Indicative topic areas include liquid crystals, self-assembled structures and foods. ou’ll also be able to use wide-ranging simulation methods for your work – molecular dynamics or Monte Carlo, for example.

You learn through

• independent research
• laboratory training
• research training, including mandatory ethics and integrity sessions
• teacher training
• participation in the MERI Research Colloquium – presenting posters and oral presentations

This course prepares you for a career in

• software development and management
• IT Systems
• banking
• risk management
• financial data provision

Previous graduates of this course have gone on to work for

• Harvard University
• the University of Cambridge
• the University of Nottingham
• Max Plank Inst Mainz
• Max Plank Inst Gottingen
• Aix-Marseille University
• the University of Pittsburgh

 

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.