Postgraduate research opportunities

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

We believe that great minds don’t think alike. We welcome students from across the world into our friendly research community. Here you'll have access to our sector-leading research facilities, be guided by our expert academics, and contribute towards our pioneering research.

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 – we’ll be here to support you.

Get ready to shape the real world.

Our research strengths

Impressive facilities including dedicated postgraduate study spaces, workshops, labs, studios, practical testing facilities and our Creative Energy Homes
Networking, training and support from our Researcher Academy
Academics specialising in many areas of engineering, architecture and technology – find a possible supervisor
Acclaimed engineering and architecture research groups, centres and institutes
Research that delivers real and significant impact to society, the environment, and to our industry partners
Recognised as among the best in the UK by the Research Excellence Framework 2021 for the strength of our research
Partnerships and collaborations with universities, industry and stakeholders across the world

Explore available PhDs

Browse our range of PhD's below including our available funded PhD studentships.

Three PhD students working in the architecture studio

Architecture and Built Environment

An engineering PhD student using a pilot scale bioreactor suite

Chemical and Environmental Engineering

Two engineering PhD students using the Instron 8801 load frame

Civil Engineering

An engineering PhD student using an optical fibre imaging system

Electrical and Electronic Engineering

Electrical and Electronic Engineering PhD

Mechanical, Materials and Manufacturing Engineering

Two females in looking at results on a laptop

Funded PhD studentships

Discover Centres for Doctoral Training (CDTs)

View individual CDTs to see details of their research and how to apply for a PhD hosted by them. Please note not all CDTs are currently recruiting new postgraduate researchers.