Undertake supervised study in the Materials and Engineering Research Institute (MERI), with exceptional facilities and expert support.

Undertake a period of intensive study as part of the University’s vibrant research community.
Work closely with industrial partners, including regular site work.
Examine advanced materials, treatments and coatings for use in engineering.
Contribute to the acclaimed work of MERI researchers.

On this course, you'll undertake intensive study into a specific area of materials science and engineering. You'll benefit from expert tutelage, cutting-edge facilities and a supportive research community. Your finished work will stand alongside widely-acclaimed MERI publications – a high proportion of which have been 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, faculty 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 and expertise in your chosen subject area. These supervisors will assist you in defining your personal programme, provide direction and help you to develop your research.

You learn through

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

Previous graduates of this course have gone on to work for

• TWI
• Bodycote
• Rolls-Royce
• Outokumpo
• Arconic
• Eisenbau Kramer
• RWE
• ATI Speciality Metals

 

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.