Program Overview

PhD in Materials Science and Metallurgy

The PhD is a research-based course that introduces students to research skills and specialist knowledge. The Materials Science Department in Cambridge leads a wide spectrum of cutting-edge materials research with state-of-the-art facilities. The department has a thriving postgraduate school with more than 130 research students studying for postgraduate research degrees in areas that address key problems in materials science.

Overview of the Program

• The PhD program is designed to give students with relevant experience at master's level the opportunity to carry out focused research in the discipline under close supervision.
• The program aims to give students the opportunity to acquire or develop skills and expertise relevant to their research interests.
• It also provides training in transferable skills to broaden their horizon above and beyond the focus of their research in the department.

Learning Outcomes

Through completion of a PhD in Materials Science and Metallurgy, students will:

• Gain a comprehensive understanding of techniques and a thorough knowledge of the literature applicable to their own research.
• Demonstrate originality in the application of knowledge, together with a practical understanding of how research and enquiry are used to create and interpret knowledge in their field.
• Show abilities in the critical evaluation of current research and research techniques and methodologies.
• Demonstrate some self-direction and originality in tackling and solving problems, and act autonomously in the planning and implementation of research.
• Follow a comprehensive transferable skills training programme to develop skills and attributes for future careers.
• Produce a thesis for examination.

Program Details

• Duration: 3-4 years full-time, 4-7 years part-time.
• Study Mode: Research.
• Degree: Doctor of Philosophy.
• Department: Department of Materials Science and Metallurgy.

Admission and Application

• Up to 40 students are admitted to full-time PhD studies in materials science each academic year.
• The majority start in October, but a small number are admitted in January and April.
• Students are fully integrated into the department's research culture, join a research group, and are supervised by one or two members of our academic staff.
• Students wishing to apply for a PhD in Materials Science should investigate opportunities on the department website and are encouraged to make contact with potential supervisors prior to applying.

Key Dates and Deadlines

• Lent 2026: Applications open September 4, 2024, deadline October 2, 2025, course starts January 5, 2026.
• Easter 2026: Applications open September 4, 2024, deadline January 14, 2026, course starts April 17, 2026.
• Michaelmas 2026: Applications open September 3, 2025, deadline May 14, 2026, course starts October 1, 2026.
• Lent 2027: Applications open September 3, 2025, deadline October 1, 2026, course starts January 5, 2027.
• Easter 2027: Applications open September 3, 2025, deadline January 14, 2027, course starts April 17, 2027.
• Funding Deadlines: Course funding deadline December 3, 2025, Gates Cambridge US round only October 15, 2025.

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