Current research degree projects
Explore our current postgraduate research degree and PhD opportunities.
374 research degree projects
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Photonics and optoelectronics | Electronics and Computer Science | Engineering | Physics and astronomy | Mathematical sciences
Energy-efficient multicore fibre amplifiers for future submarine networks
This PhD project develops next-generation multicore fibre amplifiers for sustainable submarine networks. The research combines simulation and experiment to create energy-efficient, high-capacity amplification technologies that reduce power consumption, cost per bit, and enhance future global communication infrastructure. -
Geography and environmental science | Ocean and earth science
Flood-driven habitat change and the spread of aquatic invasive species
This PhD explores how floods reshape river habitats and drive the spread of invasive species. Using hydrological modelling, experimental ecology and individual-based modelling, the project links flood dynamics with invasion pathways in UK and South African rivers, generating evidence to inform climate-resilient flood and invasive species management. -
Engineering | Electronics and Computer Science | Physics and astronomy
Leveraging machine learning for design optimisation of mechanical metamaterials
The main aim of this PhD is to design advanced and novel mechanical metamaterials that can achieve high levels of noise and vibration isolation. This will be achieved through the application of machine learning and artificial intelligence methodologies to enable optimal design of these emerging noise and vibration control treatments. -
Engineering
Techniques of improvement of fracture toughness in composites and development of multi-scale computational models for the simulation of the crack propagation and prediction of the residual strength
This PhD investigates methods to improve the fracture toughness of carbon fiber composites through experimental testing (Double Cantilever Beam and End Notch Flexure) and multiscale modeling in Ansys. It explores environmental effects and surface modification techniques, providing training in experimental mechanics, materials characterization, and finite element analysis for advanced composite structural performance research. -
Engineering
Rapid Development and Testing of Multifunctional Coatings to Combat Encrustation and Biofilm Formation on Urological Devices
Urological stents often suffer from encrustation and biofilm formation, causing infections and device failure. This project develops multilayer antimicrobial coatings and enhances a microfluidic test platform to simulate urinary conditions. The goal is rapid, pre-clinical evaluation of new stent coatings to prevent infection and accelerate clinical translation. -
Engineering | Electronics and Computer Science | Psychology | Medicine | Health sciences
Driving simulation for assessment and rehabilitation
This PhD explores how driving simulators can be used to assess and train driving skills, and support rehabilitation following injury, illness, or disability. The mixed-method, interdisciplinary project will investigate their potential as consistent, objective assessment tools as well as their impact on the recovery of cognitive, sensory, and motor skills. -
Engineering
3D printed porous metamaterials for protective packaging of high-value objects
High value and irreplaceable items such as precision instrumentation and museum objects must be packaged extremely carefully to protect them from shock and vibration during transportation. 3D printed metamaterials offer the potential for novel, sustainable packaging solutions with substantially improved performance compared to conventional materials. -
Engineering | Mathematical sciences
Community Noise Prediction for eVTOL aircraft during flight phase transition
This PhD project investigates noise from eVTOL aircraft during transitional flight phases, aiming to improve prediction methods and assess perceived noise using virtual reality. It supports design-performance trade-offs, informs policy, and contributes to quieter, more acceptable urban air mobility systems through semi-empirical modelling and integration with whole-aircraft noise tools. -
Photonics and optoelectronics
Development of Specialty Optical Fibres for High-power Eye-safe Fibre Lasers
This PhD project will focus on advancing the fabrication of active optical fibres, optimising their material properties, and developing specialised coatings to achieve excellent laser efficiency, good beam quality, and effective thermal management for high-power fibre lasers and amplifiers operating at the eye-safe wavelength of 1.55 micrometers (μm) . -
Photonics and optoelectronics | Physics and astronomy
Integrating hollow-core fibres with photonic integrated circuits
Are you excited by cutting-edge optics, photonics, and the chance to help develop revolutionary new technology? This PhD project explores how to combine two transformative technologies – Hollow-Core Fibres (HCFs) and Photonic Integrated Circuits (PICs) to build a revolutionary new photonics platform and unlock new possibilities in science and engineering.