Program Overview

Introduction to the EPSRC CDT PhD in 2D Materials of Tomorrow

The EPSRC CDT PhD in 2D Materials of Tomorrow is a four-year doctoral training programme that aims to provide students with the knowledge and skills for cutting-edge, cross-disciplinary research in the science and applications of two-dimensional materials. This new class of advanced materials has the potential to transform modern technologies, from clean energy to quantum engineering.

Programme Structure

The first six months of the programme are based at the University of Manchester, during which time students will engage in a rigorous training programme combining teaching on the underlying scientific principles with a strong emphasis on experimental skills and techniques underpinning the development of 2D Materials applications. In the fourth month of the programme, students will be allocated their PhD project. For home students, the project selection will determine whether the student transfers to Cambridge or stays in Manchester. For international students, the destination institution is determined during the pre-application process, but they will still have a choice of projects within their destination institution.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the training programme, students will:

• have proficiency in essential fabrication and characterisation techniques, and the basics of modelling and materials design
• have knowledge of the scientific principles underpinning this practical work, including elements of fundamental and applied materials physics, chemistry, and engineering
• be familiar with up-to-date literature in the field, and have had opportunities to develop skills in summarising and presenting research results

By the end of the PhD programme, students will have:

• the ability to conceptualise, design and implement a project for the generation of new knowledge, applications or understanding at the forefront of the discipline, and to adjust the project design in the light of unforeseen problems
• a detailed understanding of applicable techniques for research and advanced academic enquiry
• produced a thesis for examination

Departments

This course is advertised in the following departments:

• Department of Chemistry
• Department of Materials Science and Metallurgy
• Department of Physics
• Department of Engineering

Key Information

• Duration: 3-4 years full-time, 4-7 years part-time
• Study Mode: Research
• Degree: Doctor of Philosophy

Dates and Deadlines

• Michaelmas 2026:
  • Applications open: September 3, 2025
  • Application deadline: May 14, 2026
  • Course Starts: September 14, 2026
• Easter 2027:
  • Applications open: September 3, 2025
  • Application 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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