phd engineering cambridge university

PhD and MPhil Research Degrees

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Admission to Cambridge research degrees is managed by the University's Postgraduate Admissions Office .  Full information about the programme and how to apply is available in the University's Graduate Student online prospectus.

The IfM is part of the Department of Engineering and offers the following research degrees :

- PhD in Engineering

- MPhil in Engineering

Details of the programmes can be found under the Department of Engineering listing in the Qualifications Directory. Further information about the PhD/MRes in Ultra Precision can be found on the  EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Ultra Precision webpages .

Developing a research proposal

Applicants are encouraged to discuss their proposed research topic with the potential supervisor concerned. It is advisable that you contact the potential supervisor to determine your potential suitability before completing the application forms. It is recommended that in the first instance, you send a short CV and brief description of your research interest.

Finding a supervisor

The IfM has a number of research areas clustered around research groups and centres. Each has one (or more) senior colleague(s) leading the activity and able to act as supervisor. A full list of potential supervisors and research areas is available on the Research Topics webpage . It is beneficial to contact your choice of supervisor before submitting your application to check their suitability and availability.

How to apply?

Applications can be made online  and you will be able to monitor the progress of your application throughout.

When can I start?

We recommend starting in October (Michaelmas Term) as the introductory courses for research students are predominantly held during this term. However applications can be made for a January (Lent Term) start. Only in very exceptional circumstances are research students are admitted in April (Easter Term).

Deadlines for applications

Many supervisors only offer a limited number of places for research students and so an early application is encouraged.  Early applications may be eligible for consideration for scholarships.

Further information about funding deadlines is available on the Graduate Admissions webpages on  Application and Funding Deadlines .  

In some cases funded studentships are advertised on  www.jobs.ac.uk  and will be listed on our funding opportunities page .

There are a series of funding deadlines for international, EU and UK applicants in November, December and January for students wishing to be considered for these scholarships.

A number of scholarships including EPSRC doctoral training grants (for UK and EU students) are available for the best students.  

Further information about funding opportunities can be found on the Graduate Admissions webpages Funding your study . 

Graduate Studies at the Engineering Department  

Some specific information about graduate studies at the Engineering Department is available here , and application forms may be obtained from [email protected]

IfM graduate applications contact

Your potential supervisor or the research centre administrator will often be able to answer most queries regarding your application.  

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PhD in Engineering

University of cambridge, different course options.

• Key information

Course Summary

Tuition fees, entry requirements, similar courses at different universities, key information data source : idp connect, qualification type.

PhD/DPhil - Doctor of Philosophy

Subject areas

Engineering Studies

Course type

The University Of Cambridge Department Of Engineering is one of the leading centres of engineering in the world, renowned for both its teaching and its research. Since its foundation in 1875, it has grown to become the largest department in the University, and the largest integrated engineering department in the UK, with approximately 150 faculty, 260 contract research staff and research fellows, 900 graduate students, and 1,200 undergraduates.

By the end of the PhD, students are expected to have produced original work making a significant contribution to knowledge in the field of engineering. At the same time, the Department expects that students will leave with the wider skills necessary to be successful in either an academic or a non-academic career.

The PhD is assessed through the examination of a thesis, including an oral ("viva voce") examination. The thesis must not exceed 65,000 words (including appendices, footnotes, tables and equations), and must not contain more than 150 figures.

Written examination

First-year students are normally required to take two master's-level taught modules (selected from a list of over 100 modules) as part of their first-year assessment, and will participate in regular seminars, which will equip them with essential skills in research practice and communication.

UK fees Course fees for UK students

For this course (per year)

International fees Course fees for EU and international students

Applicants for this course should have achieved a UK Good II.i Honours Degree. Students currently undertaking a taught Master's degree at Cambridge must achieve a mark of 70 per cent to be allowed to continue to the PhD degree. Students currently studying for a Master's degree by research must satisfy their examiners that they are capable of continuing to the PhD degree. Successful applicants will have a background in engineering, science or a related subject.

Engineering Management MSc

Middlesex university, msc in engineering management (online), university of hull, phd chemical engineering, msc (research) chemical engineering, msc (research) engineering.

© Martin Bond

We house over 30 research groups working in fundamental science, engineering, and mathematics fields, with an overarching drive to deliver real impact in the areas of sustainability and healthcare. Our multidisciplinary expertise is centered on five key competencies: biology, materials, reactions and processes, sensor technologies and big data. Most of our research groups accept applications for PhD study.

Entry requirements

You are normally expected to hold, or to be about to achieve, a First Class or high 2.i Honours Degree (or the equivalent from an overseas institution, please see the  International Qualifications  page) in chemical engineering, engineering, chemistry, biochemistry, applied mathematics, physics, biological science or related subjects. Alternatively, candidates with an appropriate Master's qualification may be considered, but please be advised that we would still normally expect a First Class or high 2.i Honours (or overseas equivalent) undergraduate degree.

In addition, if English is not your first language, you may need to take a language proficiency test. You do not need to take a test before you apply, but if you are made an offer, it could be a requirement that you obtain a passing score. To determine if you are likely to need an English test, please see ' Will I Have a Language Requirement '.

How to apply

University of cambridge postgraduate admissions.

To study for a PhD in Chemical Engineering or Biotechnology at the University of Cambridge, you must formally apply to University of Cambridge Postgraduate Admissions. Please see their website for more information about applying online : University of Cambridge Postgraduate Admissions.

All first-year PhD research students are registered for no formal registration (NOTAF) until satisfactory progress has been made. Offer letters from the Board of Graduate Studies to such students say that they have either been registered for a a PhD (Probationary) or NOTAF in the first instance. Research students are registered for the PhD only after a satisfactory progress assessment at the end of three terms.

Close the Gap

The Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology welcomes applications from underrepresented groups, and we are proud to participate in Close the Gap , the Oxford and Cambridge University's initiative to transform doctoral student selection to develop a socially and epistemically just and inclusive environment for world-leading research.

Completing the Graduate Admissions Application Form

Please note that the admissions process can take 2 - 3 months.

Proposed Supervisor, Title of Research and Research Summary Before choosing a research area, please see the Department's Research Group  page to become familiar with our current research. On your application, you must enter the name of a prospective supervisor; we are unable to consider applications without one. A degree of flexibility on both sides (the Department and you) is helpful. Students frequently come to the Department and work in a slightly different area to their original preference.

Research Groups Offering Part Time Study 

Some groups are able to consider applicants for part-time study; please see the list below: 

Sebastian Ahnert’s research group -- Structural Complexity

Graham Christie’s group  --  Molecular Microbiology

Adrian Fisher’s group  -- Electrochemical and Microengineering

Séamus Higson’ s group  -- Bio-analytical Chemistry and Energy Systems

Markus Kraft’s group -- Computational Modelling

Ewa Marek's group -- Energy Reactions and Carriers

Róisín Owen’s group -- Bioelectronic Systems Technology

Sam Stranks’ group  --  Optoelectronic Materials and Device Spectroscopy

Axel Zeitler’s group  --  Terahertz Applications

Scholarships Please see the University's Postgraduate Prospectus for details on funding opportunities and deadlines. Scholarship rounds at Cambridge are highly competitive, and we encourage all our applicants to search for funding sources that are external to the University.

Reasons for applying We would like your reasons for applying to Cambridge itself, for example, why Cambridge is an ideal fit for your proposed research.

Statement of interest Let us know why you're interested in the course, why you feel you're an ideal candidate for it, and what you would do with your degree after its completion.

College preferences The application form asks you to indicate a choice of College; the Postgraduate Admissions website has information on the College system and choosing a College .

Letters of Reference When selecting referees, please refer to the guidelines provided by  Postgraduate Admissions  on who to nominate to be your referees.

What happens after you apply

Please note that it normally takes 2-3 months before a decision is made on an application.   Your most current information will be on the  Applicant Portal ; please check there regularly for the latest updates.

Before your application will be electronically sent from the Postgraduate Admissions Office to the Department, two academic references and copies of your transcripts must be provided via the Applicant Portal.   You should notify your referees immediately that you have applied for admission to Cambridge, and they should expect to receive an email that will contain instructions on uploading the reference. Please ask them to check their spam/junk mail folders for this email. In addition, you must upload copies of your most recent transcripts from  all  your previous degrees. Please note that if you are made an offer of admission, you will be asked to send original hard copies of your final transcripts.

Once your application is submitted, and all required supporting documents uploaded, your application will be sent to the Department for consideration. If we recommend an offer of admission, your application will then be considered by the Degree Committee in Engineering and then the Postgraduate Admissions Office. Provided your application is fully approved, admissions will issue a Conditional Offer, which will outline all the steps you must take to obtain a Confirmation of Admission. You will be able to track each step via the Applicant Portal.

Receiving a conditional offer

In your Conditional Offer, you will see the conditions you must meet before your admission is confirmed. You should complete the tasks associated for each condition as soon as you are able, you do not need to wait until you are able to meet all of them . For example, you can accept your offer, upload a photograph, and complete and upload the Visa Status form (if applicable) straight away. Many applicants will also be able to upload a passport copy immediately. The more conditions you can meet early, the greater your chances of getting a confirmed offer in good time.

Please be advised that when you upload a document onto the Applicant Portal, or if delivery of your original hardcopies are signed for at the Postgraduate Admissions Office, your condition will not be automatically met. Your uploaded or hardcopies of documents will join a queue with other students' documents to await processing. Once the document is considered by staff at the Admissions Office, they will either update the condition as complete, or they will issue a note on your self-service as to why the condition was not met and the steps you need to take. It normally takes 1-2 weeks, or longer during busy periods such as late summer/early autumn and in December/January, before the document is processed by the Admissions Office.

Withdrawing your offer

If you determine that you will be unable to take up your place at Cambridge, you will need to log-in to your self-service and formally withdraw your application. This will alert the Admissions Office, the Department, and your College of your intentions.

Your fees will vary depending on your nationality (UK or overseas) and your choice of college. Your living expenses (maintenance fees) will also vary depending on the number of dependents accompanying you. For more detailed information on the costs you will incur, please visit the  Student Registry .

A full list of deadlines is published on the   Deadlines Page  of the University's Graduate Admissions Office. Please note that an offer of admission does not guarantee a scholarship, and the Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology does not provide funding support towards fees and maintenance from its own resources. Also, under University regulations, it is not possible for students to work as a research or teaching assistant while studying for a PhD.

Due to the highly competitive nature of scholarship opportunities at the  University ,  we encourage all applicants to search for funding outside of the University , i.e., government scholarships offered by your home country.

Students at Cambridge are members of both the University and a College. If you are offered a place of study on one of our graduate courses, you will obtain a place at a College as well. You do not have to be a member of the same college as your supervisor.

The Department is where you will attend lectures, conduct research, etc. The Colleges provide: on-going academic and pastoral support from your Tutor and Graduate Office; accommodation and catering; financial advice and assistance; and social, cultural, and sporting facilities. Colleges administer formal processes, including matriculation (formally joining the University and College), monitoring international students' status for visa purposes, and graduation.

Choosing a College

As you are completing your application for admission, you may indicate your first and second choices of college, or you may leave your application 'open'.  If your application for study is approved, but neither your first nor second College choice will be able to offer you a place, your application will be sent to a randomly selected college. When determining your college choices, it's especially useful to visit the University's  Choosing a College  page. Here, you will find advice on how to choose a college (and how not to!). You should also look at their Key Facts and Figures link to help you choose.

Visa requirements

The most up-to-date information about visa and ATAS requirements for applicants can be found on the  International Student Office's  website.

EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Sensor Technologies for a Healthy and Sustainable Future

We are home to the EPSRC funded Centre for Doctoral Training in Sensor Technologies , established in direct response to an identified training need articulated by major UK industries, SMEs and the academic sector. The Sensor CDT delivers an interdisciplinary, research-focused training programme to outstanding students, ranging all the way from physical concepts of sensing, interpreting, and managing sensory data, to application-focused sensor development.

The Sensor CDT course is a four-year interdisciplinary and research-focused training programme. It introduces our students to the breadth of sensor technologies and applications while providing depth in key topics. The programme ranges from the physical concepts of sensing via the interpretation and management of sensory data to modern developments in sensor applications.

The programme is structured as a one-year Master of Research (MRes) course followed by a three-year PhD research project.

Find out more about the programme on the Sensors CDT website .

While we are happy to help you with any queries about the application process and conditions of admission, we do ask that you please read the  University's Postgraduate Prospectus  in the first instance, as it provides information about fees and funding opportunities, entrance requirements, deadlines, and the application process. If you have already been made an offer, you should consult the  Offer Booklet  for guidance. If you feel that you need assistance, please email  [email protected]

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PhD in Materials Science

• Department of Materials Science & Metallurgy
• MPhil in Micro- & Nanotechnology Enterprise (one year course)

"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 .

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19 courses offered in the Department of Engineering

Aerosol science epsrc cdt - phd.

This four-year doctoral training programme in Aerosol Science is part of the multi-institutional EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT) in Aerosol Science: harnessing aerosol science for improved security, resilience and global health and aims to provide scientists and engineers with a broad overview of the aerosol science sector in addition to in-depth training in detailed measurements, analysis and application approaches. The first seven months of the programme are based at the University of Bristol, during which time students will receive training in the underlying physical science governing the properties and transformation of aerosols. After this time, students will undertake a research project at Cambridge for five months, prior to commencing the main body of their doctoral research.

Full funding is available for eligible students.

More Information

Connected Electronic and Photonic Systems - MRes

***Note 29 January 2024: The title of this course will be changing from what is shown on this page.  The course will be renamed the MRes in Photonic and Electronic Systems with effect from 1 October 2024.  Applicants are notified that all offers for the course will be made under the new title, and student transcripts on award will show the course title as the MRes in Photonic and Electronic Systems.***

The programme is designed to begin to equip students for engineering leadership positions, developing a high level of understanding and skills in photonic and electronic systems, in particular, the fundamentals of the field together with technology, systems and applications knowledge, and some research experience.

Construction Engineering - MSt

The Construction Engineering Master's (CEM) programme is a Master of Studies (MSt) course offered by the Department of Engineering in association with the Cambridge Judge Business School at the University of Cambridge.

The aim of the course is to equip leaders to transform the construction industry. This is an advanced leadership programme aimed at future leaders of the construction industry.

Energy Technologies - MPhil

The world faces major challenges in meeting the current and future demand for sustainable and secure energy supplies. The Energy Technologies MPhil course is designed for graduates who want to help tackle these problems by developing practical engineering solutions, and who want to learn more about the fundamental science and the technologies involved in energy utilisation, electricity generation, energy efficiency, and alternative energy.

Engineering - MPhil

This course is designed to provide further study and training in research in the field of engineering through a supervised research project and the writing of a thesis. There is a small (32-hour, plus assessment) taught element to the course; the marks for the taught element do not form part of the formal assessment for the MPhil degree.

Potential applicants should contact potential supervisors in advance of applying in order to determine the viability of their proposed research subject, and the supervisor's capacity to accept an MPhil student.

Engineering - PhD

The University of Cambridge Department of Engineering is one of the leading centres of engineering in the world, renowned for both its teaching and its research. It is also the largest integrated engineering Department in the UK. By the end of the PhD, students are expected to have produced original work making a significant contribution to knowledge in the field of engineering. At the same time, the Department expects that students will leave with the wider skills necessary to be successful in either an academic or a non-academic career.

Engineering for Sustainable Development - MPhil

The Engineering for Sustainable Development MPhil course is designed for graduates who want to help tackle pressing global problems by developing practical engineering solutions. The course is about recognising that engineers have to operate within an increasingly complex set of constraints, and therefore must be capable of dealing with a range of challenges. The subject is based on some very straightforward principles: it is about living within Earth’s finite limits and resources, helping everyone on the planet to achieve an acceptable quality of life; acting as stewards of the environment for future generations; dealing with complexity; and handling the many trade-offs which have to be made.

Future Infrastructure and Built Environment EPSRC CDT - MRes + PhD

Future infrastructure and built environment (part time) - mres + phd, future propulsion and power epsrc cdt - mres + phd, healthcare innovation - pgcert.

The Healthcare Innovation programme is a part-time set of courses designed to fit with the demands of full-time employment. The course is delivered through a combination of face-to-face sessions requiring attendance in Cambridge, online sessions and self-directed learning and the course is supported through a virtual online environment. The objective of the programme is to provide an introduction to the research skills, governance and innovation needed to work successfully with healthcare systems, suitable for those from engineering and medical backgrounds, as well as related areas. Students will be equipped with the skills necessary to understand how biomedical engineering impacts upon populations, health conditions and clinical outcomes, and learn how to work across the boundaries of engineering, design and healthcare in an effective manner. The course is structured such that students apply first for the PgCert,  and then can progress through the PgDip and then on to the MSt in a flexible manner, enrolling each year for the corresponding award if they choose to progress, with breaks allowed along the way.

Industrial Systems, Manufacture, and Management - MPhil

The aim of ISMM is to equip numerate graduates with the academic skills, personal development and industrial experience to be immediately effective in their early careers in industry. ISMM is very different from any other academic course: it combines traditional academic teaching material with a series of industrial visits, industrial seminars, skills development and projects in industry. ISMM is a very intensive programme that gives a direct experience of many different industries, cultures and working environments. In addition to the lectures, the projects present real challenges in genuine industrial and business environments.

Leadership of Urban Digital Innovation for Public Value (LeadUP) - PGCert - Closed

Leadership of urban digital innovation for public value (leadup) - pgdip - closed, leadership of urban digital innovation for public value (leadup) - mst - closed, machine learning and machine intelligence - mphil - closed.

This is an 11-month MPhil programme, taught from within our Information Engineering Division, with a unique, joint emphasis on the expanding areas of machine learning and machine intelligence. The course aims to teach the state of the art in machine learning and machine intelligence; to give students the skills and expertise necessary to take leading roles in industry; and to equip students with the research skills necessary for doctoral study. The course is split into four specialised pathways, which define the area in which the dissertation will fall, and which each have different compulsory and permissible module combinations.

The four pathways are:

• Machine Learning;
• Speech and Language Processing;
• Computer Vision and Robotics;
• Human-Computer Interaction.

Nuclear Energy - MPhil

The MPhil programme in Nuclear Energy, offered by the Department of Engineering in collaboration with the Cambridge Nuclear Energy Centre, is a one-year full-time nuclear technology master's programme for engineers and scientists who wish to make a difference to the problems of climate change and energy security by developing nuclear power generation.

Photonic and Electronic Systems EPSRC CDT - MRes + PhD

The EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Photonic and Electronic Systems offers a four-year PhD course in collaboration with University College London. The four-year course comprises an initial year undertaking the Photonic and Electronic Systems MRes programme, followed by a three-year PhD programme. Continuation on to the PhD is conditional on satisfactory performance in the MRes year. Full funding is available for eligible applicants. The programme is designed to produce engineering leaders with a high level of understanding and skills in photonic and electronic systems, in particular, the fundamentals of the field together with the necessary research expertise, and technology, systems and applications knowledge.

Research in Agri-Food Robotics EPSRC CDT - PhD

AgriFoRwArdS is a collaboration between the Universities of Lincoln, Cambridge and East Anglia, and focuses on robotics within the agricultural sector. The Centre provides fully funded opportunities for students to undertake MSc and PhD study, to become the next leaders in the agri-food robotics community.

This course listing is intended for students who are already members of the EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Agri-Food Robotics, are completing the MSc at the University of Lincoln, and intend to continue with the CDT for PhD study at the University of Cambridge. All potential applicants are welcome to read this page and may wish to apply for the CDT at the University of Lincoln.

12 courses also advertised in the Department of Engineering

Antarctic studies - phd.

From the British Antarctic Survey

This PhD course takes place under the joint supervision of a research scientist at the British Antarctic Survey (BAS) and a University supervisor. Students may be based at BAS but will be registered for their degree with one of the partnering departments: Archaeology & Anthropology, Land Economy, Plant Sciences, Zoology, Earth Sciences, Geography and Scott Polar Research Institute, Applied Mathematics & Theoretical Physics, Chemistry, Engineering, Computer Science and Technology.

Biological Sciences BBSRC DTP - PhD - Closed

From the School of the Biological Sciences

The Cambridge Biosciences DTP is a four year fully-funded PhD programme that aims to create highly skilled and employable people. The programme offers training across 23 University Departments/Institutes and 3 Partner Institutes providing access to a wide range of research areas related to the strategic themes of the BBSRC. We offer three types of DTP studentships:

• DTP Standard

During the programme, DTP Standard and Targeted students will undertake two ten-week rotations in different labs before commencing their PhD. They will receive training in a variety of areas including but not limited to statistics, programming, ethics, data analysis, scientific writing and public engagement. Students will also undertake a 12-week internship (PIPS).

iCase students are not required to undertake rotations but may do so if they feel that this training would be useful. They must undertake a placement with their Industrial Partner for a minimum of three months and a maximum of 18 months.

Students will be expected to submit their thesis at the end of the fourth year.

Part-time study, whilst not the norm, may be viable, depending on the project, and will be considered on a case by case basis so please discuss this option with your proposed supervisor before making an application for this mode of study.

Clinical Medicine Wellcome Trust - PhD - Closed

From the Faculty of Clinical Medicine

We provide high-quality research training to clinical health professionals with an aptitude for research to enable them to become future leaders in medical and healthcare science. We offer training in an outstanding environment, spanning basic science, translational medicine, interdisciplinary, behavioural and applied health research.

We take great pride in our track record of successfully training health professionals to undertake the highest quality research across Cambridge and Norwich. We offer one of the most rewarding environments in which you could pursue your research training with world-leading researchers in The  Schools of Clinical Medicine and Biological Sciences at the Universities of Cambridge, Wellcome Sanger Institute and other MRC, Wellcome & Cancer Research UK funded Institutes, Centres & Units in the wider Cambridge area, as well as the School of Health Sciences and Norwich Medical School at the University of East Anglia with other partners on the Norwich Research Park.  The most important criteria we are looking for are the pursuit of research excellence, hard work and the will to make a difference to health.

The programme faculty provides mentoring and guidance on opportunities to undertake pre-doctoral research placements, enabling successful candidates to make an informed choice of PhD project and supervisor.  Bespoke training and support for career development for fellows, together with support to supervisors, ensures a successful research experience.  Post-doctorally, we will guide fellows based on their individual progress, to make the transition into higher research fellowships and clinical pathways, enabling ongoing training with continuance of research momentum.

Computational Methods for Materials Science CDT - MPhil + PhD

From the Department of Physics

The development of new materials lies at the heart of many of the technological challenges we currently face, for example creating advanced materials for energy generation. Computational modelling plays an increasingly important role in the understanding, development and optimisation of new materials.

This four-year doctoral training programme on computational methods for material modelling aims to train scientists not only in the use of existing modelling methods but also in the underlying computational and mathematical techniques. This will allow students to develop and enhance existing methods, for instance by introducing new capabilities and functionalities, and also to create innovative new software tools for materials modelling in industrial and academic research.

The first year of the doctoral training programme is provided by the existing MPhil course in Scientific Computing, which has research and taught elements, as well as additional training elements. The final three years consist of a PhD research project, with a student-led choice of projects offered by researchers closely associated with the CDT. ( https://ljc.group.cam.ac.uk ) 

Developing National Capability for Materials 4.0 EPSRC CDT - PhD

From the Department of Materials Science and Metallurgy

Interdisciplinary Design for the Built Environment - MSt

From the Faculty of Architecture and History of Art

The Master of Studies (MSt) in Interdisciplinary Design for the Built Environment (IDBE) is a transformative part-time master’s programme at the University of Cambridge for global practitioners working in the built environment. The master's was created by a powerful partnership between the University of Cambridge’s world-leading Architecture and Engineering Departments.  It is designed for professionals working in the built environment who want to deliver the kind of sustainable and resilient places and spaces which are crucial to our common future. Interdisciplinary awareness and related management skills are seldom part of standard architecture, engineering and other built environment qualifications. IDBE helps ambitious built environment professionals meet the increasing demands of their market, their sector and invigorate their personal development.

The learning approach is highly interactive and designed to encourage reflection and debate. Students are supported by a team of expert tutors and supervisors. The speakers, lecturers and facilitators are leading experts and practitioners from both academia and industry.  A key feature of the programme is the collaborative learning experience. The programme facilitates shared learning between peers, and networking with the extensive range of contributors, together providing a rich learning environment.

Interdisciplinary Design for the Built Environment - PGCert

From the Department of Architecture

The Postgraduate Certificate in Interdisciplinary Design for the Built Environment is a ten month, part-time programme that addresses many of the key challenges experienced in the design of the built environment, such as:

• Global climate change
• Environmental, social and economic sustainability
• Human health and well-being

The course will explore the context within which projects within the built environment are procured and designed with a key focus on:

• The relationship between the design team and the client
• The responsibility of the design team to the end user/society

The Certificate will introduce students to methods through which design teams can address these challenges through the projects they are involved in, such as:

• Sustainable and resilient design
• Innovation and Technology
• Interdisciplinary practice and team-working skills
• Design thinking
• Research skills

Interdisciplinary Nanoscience and Nanotechnology - PhD

The vision of this PhD programme is to deliver bespoke cohort-based interdisciplinary training which promotes holistic problem-focused thinking for nanoscientists, and drives new scientific directions as well as impactful, and responsible translation of research to technologies. A particular emphasis will be exposure to a broad range of world-class research environments, to allow students to discover their individual research and technology interests and develop strong ownership of their PhD topic.

The first six months of the programme will provide advanced-level training, specifically designed for students, through an integrated lectures + practicals module on Applied Nanoscience, a module on System Integration for Experimentalists and one short and one longer experimental project, prior to final selection of an interdisciplinary PhD research project between two research groups in the Departments of Physics, Chemistry, Engineering, Materials Science or another relevant department within the University. An additional module on Innovation for Scientists will help students develop a wider perspective, including training on innovation, sustainability and responsible research.

Throughout the programme there will be an environment supporting creativity, resilience, peer-to-peer learning, networking and connectivity. The programme will offer professional skills training to support students for different career paths in industry, academia and beyond, and will help students discover and nurture their leadership approach in varied contexts. Cross-cohort events will include student-led conferences, research seminars, onsite and offsite research and career development workshops led by internal and external experts and other activities.

Micro and Nanotechnology Enterprise - MPhil

The MPhil in Micro and Nanotechnology Enterprise is an exciting opportunity in which world-leading scientists and successful entrepreneurs are brought together to deliver a one-year master’s degree combining an in-depth multidisciplinary scientific programme with a global perspective on the commercial opportunities and business practice necessary for the successful exploitation in the rapidly developing fields of nanotechnology and nanomanufacturing.

The programme is intended for those with a good first degree in the physical sciences and relevant areas of engineering, who wish to develop research skills and commercial awareness of the cutting-edge disciplines of micro- and nanotechnology. The course will provide an unparalleled educational experience for entrepreneurs in these fields.

National Institutes of Health Oxford/Cambridge Programme NIH Ox/Cam - PhD

From the Department of Medicine

This innovative programme was established in 2002 as a collaboration between the University of Cambridge and the National Institutes of Health (NIH) in the US. Its aim is to train outstanding students in biomedical research, taking advantage of the excellent research environments in Cambridge and the US. Students work on collaborative projects organised by co-supervisors in Cambridge and the NIH, spending two years at each institution. Students have access to all NIH facilities and are paid by the NIH. The PhD is awarded by the University of Cambridge.

Nuclear Energy Futures (EPSRC CDT) - PhD

From the Department of Earth Sciences

Scientific Computing - MPhil

The MPhil programme in Scientific Computing provides world-class education on high performance computing and advanced algorithms for numerical simulation at continuum and atomic-scale levels. The course trains early-career scientists in the use of existing computational software and in the underlying components of the simulation pipeline, from mathematical models of physical systems and advanced numerical algorithms for their discretisation, to object-oriented programming and methods for high-performance computing for deployment in contemporary massively parallel computers.  As a result, course graduates have rigorous research skills and are formidably well-equipped to proceed to doctoral research or directly into employment. The highly transferable skills in algorithm development and high-performance computing make our graduates extremely employable in all sectors of industry, commerce and finance.

The MPhil in Scientific Computing is suitable for graduates from any discipline of natural sciences, technology or engineering, who have good mathematical and computational skills.  

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• EPSRC FIBE3 CDT PhD studentships
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Graduate admissions

The College of Engineering provides a diverse array of exceptional master’s and Ph.D. programs through its nine departments and institutes. On this page, you will find links to learn about admission requirements, the application process, financial aid options, how to request information, and other important details.

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The requirements for part-time students are the same as for full-time students, but the timings and deadlines are different. The table below sets out some of the main deadlines:

First year requirements for part-time students

As part-time students have almost five, rather than three, terms to complete their first year requirements (two taught modules, an RDC and the First Year Report), there is some flexibility in when the modules and RDCs are taken.

As the RDCs are a year-long programme, we recommend that part-time students start these in Michaelmas (October), if possible, but it is possible to join them in Lent (January) and finish at the end of the following Michaelmas (December). You should have completed a whole year's RDC programme before your First Year Report deadline.

Modules exams are examined in April, and the results are not available until August, so Michaelmas Term starters need to take these within their first year (as the exams are too late for the first year assessment in the second year). Lent Term starters can take modules during their their first or second year - or a combination - if preferred (which may allow for a greater choice of modules).

Keeping in touch

As a part-time student, you should expect to have 2 - 4 meetings with your supervisor per term.  Having a discussion with your supervisor early on about expectations regarding frequency of meetings, preparation expected and receiving feedback can help to clarify what each party would like, and it is also a good idea to have a written agreement. Supervisions do not need to be face-to-face; you can also make use of online collaborative tools (the University subscribes to some services and tools that might be useful).

If you have any changes to your circumstances that impact on your ability to work on your PhD, you should keep both your supervisor and College Tutor informed. This is both so that they can provide you with any necessary support, and also to ensure that you are aware of any relevant University regulations - the section below outlines some of these.

University regulations

Some University regulations for graduate students do not apply to part-time students, or apply differently. Please find a summary of some of the key differences and similarities below.

Working restrictions

Full-time research students may not work more than 10 hours per week

Part-time research students are not restricted in the hours that they may work, but should agree with their supervisor, before admission, how they will balance their work and study, and keep this under regular review.

Working (studying) away from Cambridge

Full-time students must apply for leave to work away if they will be undertaking work towards their PhD away from Cambridge for longer than two weeks.

Part-time students must apply for leave to work away if they will be undertaking work towards their PhD away from their normal place of residence for longer than two weeks.

Minimum terms of research

Full-time students must undertake at least three terms of research within the University (this should coincide with the first year, in order to meet the first year requirements)

Part-time students must undertake at least five terms of research within the University (this should usually coincide with the first five terms, in order to meet the first year requirements)

Intermission

Full-time students should apply for intermission if they are experiencing health (including mental health) issues which mean that they are unable to study. Intermission pauses the clock on the PhD until the student is ready to resume.

Part-time students should apply for intermission if they are experiencing health  (including mental health) issues which mean that they are unable to study. Intermission pauses the clock on the PhD until the student is ready to resume. Intermission can also be applied for when a break from study is needed for non-medical reasons .

Terms of residence

Full-time students are required to live within 10 miles of Cambridge city centre, unless they have been granted an exemption.

Part-time students have no residence requirements but are required to attend the University on a regular basis (and must keep five terms of research at Cambridge, as above).

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Undergraduate Study

Find out about our courses, the application process, and the Department's procedures for both prospective and current students.

Graduate Study

Read about the various degree programmes we offer, how to apply, funding, assessment and examination process, and other important information.

Discover the six academic divisions and four strategic themes that make up our Department and learn about their research interests and the projects being carried out.

Latest news

24 Apr 2024

Members of the Institute for Manufacturing's Centre for Industrial Sustainability, explore the crucial importance of making industrial resources more visible. 

22 Apr 2024

Researchers behind an AI vision-based monitoring tool – used to track social distancing decisions in London during the COVID-19 pandemic – have accepted the Wilkes Award 2024 for "best paper"

18 Apr 2024

An expert on the environmental impacts of aviation, Barrett joins the University of Cambridge from MIT.

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