Program Overview

Computer Systems Engineering PhD

Research Profile

The PhD in Computer Systems Engineering expands to different research areas such as audio and video networking, multimedia architectures and applications, data communications and networking, computer engineering, video, image processing, and computer vision. Our cross-disciplinary research projects draw on the expertise of our electronic engineers, computer engineers, mathematicians, and physicists.

Research Groups

The department of Electronic and Electrical Engineering supports extensive networked computer facilities and software, as well as a wide range of computational platforms. Our research covers a range of topics, such as the theory of computation, computational intelligence, and computer games, to artificial intelligence and robotics, with most of our research groups based around laboratories offering world-class facilities.

• AI Social and Digital Innovation
• Brunel Interdisciplinary Power Systems
• Digital Manufacturing
• Electronic Systems
• Institute of Digital Futures
• Intelligent Digital Economy and Society
• Media Communication
• Sensors and Instrumentation
• Wireless Network and Communication

Find a Supervisor

Our researchers create knowledge and advance understanding, and equip versatile doctoral researchers with the confidence to apply what they have learned for the benefit of society. You are welcome to approach your potential supervisor directly to discuss your research interests.

PhD Topics

While we welcome applications from students with a clear direction for their research, we are providing you with some ideas for your chosen field of research:

• Addressing the challenge of energy losses in African power distribution networks through advanced loss reduction techniques
• Addressing water-energy nexus challenges in the Middle East through renewable energy integration
• Advanced reactive power control strategies for hosting capacity enhancement in distribution networks
• AI-enabled autonomous robots for non-disruptive inspection of utility and sewage systems
• AI system for historical handwritten text recognition (HTR)
• Applications for education and/or healthcare: Exploring the potential of 'human-like' computing
• Artificially intelligent conversational agents: exploring their value in education and/or healthcare
• Assessing the impact of virtual laboratories on practical skill development in electrical and electronic engineering education
• Blended learning models in electrical and electronic engineering: Optimising student outcomes and engagement
• Comprehensive analysis of On-Load Tap Changers (OLTC) for voltage control and hosting capacity enhancement
• Comprehensive harmonic mitigation in distribution networks with high penetration of inverter-based distribution generation (DG) units
• Developing AI-enhanced personalised learning pathways in electrical and electronic engineering education
• Developing strategies for enhancing electrification in rural Africa through off-grid renewable energy systems
• Development of a miniature capsule robot for capsule endoscopy
• Enhancing access to sustainable energy in Africa through microgrids and decentralised power systems

Research Journey

This course can be studied 3 years full-time or 6 years part-time, starting in January, April, or October.

Research Support

Excellent research support and training are provided through the Graduate School, which offers a range of personal, professional, and career development opportunities.

Careers and Your Future

You will receive tailored careers support during your PhD and for up to three years after you complete your research at Brunel.

Entry Requirements

The general University entrance requirement for registration for a research degree is normally a First or Upper Second Class Honours degree (1st or 2:1). An interview will be required as part of the admissions process.

English Language Requirements

• IELTS: 6.5 (min 6 in all areas)
• Pearson: 59 (59 in all subscores)
• BrunELT: 63% (min 58% in all areas)
• TOEFL: 90 (min 20 in all)

Fees and Funding

2025/6 Entry

• International: £24,795 full-time, £12,395 part-time
• UK: £5,006 full-time, £2,503 part-time

Fees quoted are per year and are subject to an annual increase. Brunel offers a number of funding options to research students that help cover the cost of their tuition fees, contribute to living expenses, or both.