Postgraduate research opportunities

University of Nottingham > Engineering > PhD research

We believe that great minds don’t think alike. We welcome students from across the world to become our next PhD pioneers.

This is the place where you get the space, support, skills and connections to solve real world challenges. Whether you are designing the places of tomorrow, creating cutting-edge tools and technologies, or helping make a greener planet spin a little smoother – you’ll be part of our friendly research community.

Get ready to shape the real world.

Our research strengths

The University of Nottingham is the ideal place to study for your PhD in engineering, architecture or design.

Our engineering research delivers real and significant impact to society, the environment, and to our industry partners.
Recognised by the Research Excellence Framework 2021 for our research's international standing.
Academics specialising in many areas of engineering, technology and architecture – find a possible supervisor.
Partnerships and collaborations with universities, industry and stakeholders across the world.
Impressive facilities including dedicated postgraduate study areas, workshops, labs, studios, practical testing facilities and our Creative Energy Homes.
Funded studentships available for selected research projects.
Networking, training and support from our Researcher Academy.
Take a look at some of our recent PhD projects in our postgraduate research showcase.

Explore our research

PhD research themes

Find your PhD programme in one of our six themes.

Three PhD students working in the architecture studio

Architecture, People and Design

A female technician and female engineering PhD student using an inclinable rig

Building and Sustainable Energy Technology

An engineering PhD student using a pilot scale bioreactor suite

Chemical, Environmental and Biotechnology

Two engineering PhD students using the Instron 8801 load frame

Civil and Surveying Engineering

An engineering PhD student using an optical fibre imaging system

Electrical and Electronic Engineering

Assistant Professor Ming Li working with a Spark Plasma Sintering System in the Innovative Technology Research Centre

Mechanical, Materials and Manufacturing

Research groups, centres and institutes

Discover how our research groups, centres and institutes tackle everyday problems, industrial challenges and global issues.

Research groups

Centres

Institutes

Centres for Doctoral Training (CDTs)

Please see the links below to view individual CDTs, details of their research and how to apply for a PhD hosted by them. Please note that not all CDTs may be currently recruiting new postgraduate researchers.