Program Overview

Operational Research and Logistics Postgraduate Research Degrees

Overview

The University of Portsmouth offers postgraduate research degrees in Operational Research and Logistics, providing students with the opportunity to explore complex problems and develop innovative solutions. Our research brings together experts from maths, technology, business, and industry to tackle real-world challenges.

Types of Research Degrees

We offer the following types of research degrees:

• PhD: A traditional PhD program that allows students to conduct original research under the supervision of experienced academics.
• MPhil: A research degree that is similar to a PhD but with a shorter duration and less emphasis on original contribution.
• PhD by Publication: A postgraduate research degree based on research that has already been published (excluding self-publishing) before registering with the university.

PhD and MPhil Projects

We offer a range of pre-approved funded and self-funded PhD projects in Operational Research and Logistics. Students can also submit their own research idea and find a supervisor whose research interests match theirs.

Funded Projects

There are currently no funded PhD projects available in this area. However, students can explore funding opportunities on our website.

Self-Funded Projects

• Development and application of a combined Goal Programming and Clustering methodology
• Electrification of transportation in Smart Cities: A multi-objective approach to design and locate charging facilities
• Freight micro-consolidation for last mile delivery in the Solent region
• Incorporating remanufacturing in a periodic review inventory system: Optimal and heuristic inventory control policies
• Intelligent port logistics
• Optimising the Vehicle Ferry Loading
• Real-time drone routing and scheduling for medical logistics in the Solent region

Submit Your Own Idea

If you already have a research idea, you can find a supervisor whose research interests match yours by searching our Find a PhD Supervisor page. Once you've identified someone suitable, contact them to discuss your idea.

Duration, Fees, and Funding

Duration

• MPhil: 2 years full-time, 4 years part-time
• PhD: 3 years full-time, 6 years part-time
• PhD by Publication: 1 year part-time

Fees

• UK, Channel Islands, and Isle of Man students: £4,786 per year (full-time), £2,393 per year (part-time)
• EU students: £4,786 per year (full-time), £2,393 per year (part-time)
• International students: £17,900 - £19,200 per year (full-time), £8,950 - £9,600 per year (part-time)

Funding Support

MPhil full-time and part-time courses are eligible for the Government Postgraduate Loan (UK/EU students only). PhD full-time and part-time courses are eligible for the Government Doctoral Loan (UK/EU students only).

Entry Requirements

The entry requirements for a PhD or MPhil include an upper second-class honors degree or equivalent in a relevant subject, or a master's degree in an appropriate subject. Equivalent professional experience and/or qualifications may be considered. All applicants are subject to interview.

If English is not your first language, you'll need English language proficiency at a minimum of IELTS band 6.5 with no component score below 6.0.

Support and Facilities

When you join us, you'll be supported by our Doctoral College, alongside your assigned supervisory team, who'll help you get the most from our facilities. The Doctoral College will help you become part of our thriving, collaborative research community, and help grow your skills as a researcher through the Graduate School Development Programme, which offers training, workshops, and events.

You'll be able to use open-access computer suites across campus. These are great working spaces with high-spec PCs, Macs, and printing facilities. You can also use more specialized software and equipment, such as large format printing and audio-visual equipment. Specialist technicians are on hand if you need assistance.

Research Areas

Our research in Operational Research and Logistics covers a range of areas, including:

• Decision and data analytics
• Exact and metaheuristic solution methods
• Healthcare analytics
• Multiple criteria decision aid
• Optimization modeling
• Renewable energy and sustainability analytics
• Risk and security analytics
• Transportation and maritime systems

Career Opportunities

Once you complete your postgraduate research degree, you'll be a highly-skilled researcher with the knowledge and skills to make an impact in many different industries. Your postgraduate research qualification demonstrates to potential employers that you're an intelligent, capable, and motivated person, with provable abilities and experience in critical thinking, problem-solving, project management, communication, leadership, and creativity.