PhD/MPhil Chemical Engineering / Programme details

Year of entry: 2024

Programme description

The Department of Chemical Engineering and Analytical Science is a world leader in industrially relevant research and teaching in chemical engineering and related subjects.

We undertake leading-edge multidisciplinary, creative and relevant research on a wide range of topics. Focused on advancing the science and engineering of complex systems and addressing different scales and levels of complexity, the research in the Department is carried out within seven research themes :

  • Advanced functional materials and analytical science
  • Biochemical and bioprocess engineering
  • Catalysis and porous materials
  • Multi-scale modelling
  • Process integration
  • Subsurface energy systems
  • Sustainable industrial systems

Our breadth of research expertise and highly advanced facilities make us an ideal choice whatever your doctoral interest.

Facilitating research across chemical engineering and bioscience, chemistry, mathematics and analytical and measurement science, means we can offer you the benefits of a large multidisciplinary institution at the same time as ensuring you are given personal support for your professional development.

Explore the range of research projects we offer, as well as the development and network opportunities you can expect as one of our postgraduates.

Additional programme information

Equality, diversity and inclusion is fundamental to the success of The University of Manchester, and is at the heart of all of our activities.

We know that diversity strengthens our research community, leading to enhanced research creativity, productivity and quality, and societal and economic impact.

We actively encourage applicants from diverse career paths and backgrounds and from all sections of the community, regardless of age, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation and transgender status.

We also support applications from those returning from a career break or other roles.

We consider offering flexible study arrangements (including part-time: 50%, 60% or 80%, depending on the project/funder), carer support funds for conferences, and peer support networks for parents and carers.

All appointments are made on merit.  The University of Manchester and our external partners are fully committed to equality, diversity and inclusion.

Coursework and assessment

Students will meet regularly with an academic project supervisor, who is responsible for the project, ensuring that facilities and training are available to make good progress. Annual progress reviews will take place with an independent academic mentor to ensure that the supervision arrangements and progress are satisfactory.

All research programmes have personal and professional development training units to enhance transferable skills.  Training courses cover themes such as thesis writing, business skills, career management and presentation skills.

Other resources include:

Library training and ongoing assistance from a dedicated Department librarian

  • Option to attend undergraduate or MSc classes in the University that may be beneficial to studies
  • Invitation to International Seminar Programmes within the Department, and in other Departments and Research Institutes around the University.  Students will be expected to participate in the Department's Research Student Seminar Programme
  • Invitation to Careers Service events which includes meetings with employers and recruitment agencies as well as specialised training in career planning, job applications, interview techniques and CV writing

Research students are expected to present at seminars within the Department, and also to present their work as posters or talks at international conferences and external seminars, to increase confidence, develop communication skills and improve employability.

Scholarships and bursaries

In the Department of Chemical Engineering we offer a range of scholarships, studentships and awards to support UK and overseas postgraduate researchers.

Funding is also available at university and faculty level and can be viewed on our funding page . Alternatively, you can use our funding database to find scholarships, studentships and awards you may be eligible for.

We'd recommend you discuss potential sources of funding with your supervisor before applying. They can advise what funding may be available to you, and ensure you meet nomination and application deadlines.

Disability support

Practical support and advice for current students and applicants is available from the Disability Advisory and Support Service. Email: dass@manchester.ac.uk .