Program Overview

Sustainable Materials and the Environment (MRes)

The Master of Research (MRes) degree in Sustainable Materials and the Environment is designed for highly motivated and enthusiastic students interested in research in this area. This MRes allows students to pursue a research project in a broad variety of topics under the direction of internationally recognized researchers in the School of Chemistry, Environmental Research Institute, or Tyndall National Institute at University College Cork.

Course Outline

The MRes in Sustainable Materials and the Environment is a full-time course running over 12 months from the date of first registration. The course consists of a major research thesis and taught modules, including sustainable materials and environmental chemistry, as well as transferable skills, with an emphasis on scientific writing, oral presentations, and general research skills.

Course Practicalities

Prospective applicants are advised to contact the Programme Director, Dr. Brenda Long, in advance of application to discuss possible project areas. Students should consult the Fees office page for information on EU and non-EU College and bench fees for Sustainable Materials and the Environment - MRes.

Why Choose This Course

The MRes in Sustainable Materials and the Environment is designed to give students a research-intensive experience. Taught modules will increase students' knowledge in the areas of materials, particularly sustainable materials, and environmental chemistry, and how they intersect. Research projects allow students to combine both practical and theoretical skills, emphasizing data analysis, interpretation, problem-solving, and time- and project management.

Skills and Careers Information

Students completing this MRes course will be in a competitive position to secure funding, obtain a PhD position, or enter directly into employment within the sustainable materials and environment sector.

Requirements

Applicants must have a minimum Second Class Honours Grade 2 in a primary honors degree (NFQ, Level 8) in Chemistry, Material Science, Materials Chemistry, or Physics. Applicants must be approved by the MRes coordinator and course team, including the Head of the School of Chemistry.

• Academic qualifications
• Research experience and focus
• Scientific understanding
• Personal statement
• Strong recommendations from two academic referees

English Language Requirements

Applicants who are non-native speakers of the English language must meet the university-approved English language requirements.

International/Non-EU Applicants

For full details of the non-EU application procedure, visit the international student's information page.

Fees and Costs

See the PG EU and International Fee Schedule page for tuition fees.

Available Scholarships

The university supports its postgraduate community by offering a limited number of scholarships and bursaries to prospective and current students.

Modules

The course includes the following modules:

• CM6033 Sustainable Materials and the Environment (10 credits)
• CM6034 Sustainability in Semiconductor & Chemical Industries (5 credits)
• Elective modules (choose 5 credits)
  • CM6027 Taught Postgraduate Transferable Skills Development (5 credits)
  • CM4020 Interfaces & Modelling (5 credits)
  • CM4025 Advanced Nano Materials (5 credits)
  • CM4112 Atmospheric Chemistry and Air Pollution (5 credits)
  • EV4012 Environmental Impact Assessments (5 credits)

Research Areas

The subject of the research project can be drawn from the range of staff expertise in sustainable materials and environmental chemistry disciplines in the School of Chemistry or Tyndall National Institute.