Postgraduate research

Engineering

A mechanical engineering researcher

Join over 500 PhD students in one of the largest and most diverse engineering, environmental science and audiology faculties in the UK. We develop solutions in areas including sustainable energy, green transport, resource efficiency and resilient infrastructure.

About

By tackling some of the biggest challenges facing modern society, our work is helping to improve lives worldwide. In the most recent Research Excellence Framework 2021, 100% of our research impact is recognised as world-leading or internationally excellent.

As a PhD student you'll be supported by a team of academic supervisors who'll be on hand to guide your research and provide advice. Working alongside our world-class team of researchers means you'll be working on cutting-edge research and pioneering solutions.

We'll provide you with the grounding you need to become a successful researcher. You'll benefit from both technical and personal training. You'll also be able to develop your skills further through placements in industry, mentoring, attending conferences and presenting your work.

Most of our research projects have strong links with industry so you'll be able to conduct experiments at a variety of facilities to ensure your research has real world impact. 

Main areas of research

Our research areas include:

  • Acoustics
  • Aerodynamics and Flight Mechanics
  • Astronautics
  • Bioengineering
  • Computational Engineering and Design
  • Dynamics
  • Energy and Climate Change
  • Energy Technology
  • Engineering Materials and Surface Engineering
  • Infrastructure
  • Maritime Engineering
  • Mechantronics
  • National Centre for Advanced Tribology at Southampton (nCATS)
  • Signal Processing Audio and Hearing
  • Transportation
  • Water and Environmental Engineering

Similar research degree topics

Horizon Europe Programme

The University of Southampton is pleased to announce that PGR students from EU and Horizon associated countries joining us in 2026-27 will pay the same as UK PGRs for their PhD.