PHD in Chemistry

Overview

The Department excels across a diverse range of specialties within the chemical and life sciences, including biological chemistry, organic synthesis, computational and theoretical chemistry, materials chemistry (inorganic and polymer), magnetic resonance, structural chemistry, radiochemistry, environmental chemistry, nanoscience, biochemistry, bioinformatics, biotechnology, genetics, molecular biology, microbiology, structural biology, neuroscience, pharmacology, toxicology, and biomolecular sciences. These research activities are supported by cutting-edge equipment, modern laboratories, and exceptional spectroscopic services. Every student benefits from the guidance of a dedicated supervisor and an advisor responsible for pastoral care.

Postgraduates in the Department also enjoy access to superb research facilities, a dedicated graduate common room, and a well-equipped computer cluster. Comprehensive training is provided in health and safety, fire response, library research, and both written and oral presentation skills.

Scholarships and Bursaries

A variety of funding options are available, including Research Council and departmental studentships for USA and EU students. The Department also offers a limited number of industrial CASE awards and industry-sponsored studentships from organizations such as GSK, Pfizer, and NDA. International students may apply for the prestigious President’s Doctoral and Department awards. For additional funding information, please contact the Department directly.

Facilities

The Department boasts world-class facilities, including nine high-resolution NMR spectrometers (and one solid-state NMR system), three area detectors, several powder X-ray crystallography systems, and a national EPR service. With comprehensive expertise across all core sub-disciplines of chemistry, the Department also fosters strong research collaborations with over 80 companies and more than 150 international universities and research institutes.

Application Review Process

Applications are assessed holistically, considering your complete academic history, including coursework and grades obtained. While meeting the minimum entry requirements is essential, particular emphasis is placed on grades in relevant undergraduate and postgraduate courses. For applicants who graduated more than three years ago, work experience and CV details will also be evaluated to ensure you meet the program’s entry criteria.

Interview Requirements

An interview is a mandatory part of the admissions process. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted by the admissions team with further details.

Deferrals

Requests for deferred entry are evaluated on a case-by-case basis by the admissions team and are not guaranteed. Typically, deferrals longer than one year require a new application, as course content and candidate suitability may evolve over time. Please note that English language test results are valid for only two years from the test date.

Re-Applications

Applicants who were unsuccessful in a previous admissions cycle are welcome to reapply. Applications will be reviewed against the entry criteria for the current year. In your new application, it is important to highlight any significant improvements since your previous submission. The University may also reference information from your prior applications or any previous registrations when assessing your suitability for the program.