Current research degree projects
Explore our current postgraduate research degree and PhD opportunities.
266 research degree projects
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Photonics and optoelectronics | Physics and astronomy | Mathematical sciences
Ultrafast lasers and high-harmonic generation: Developing compact X‑ray sources for next‑generation imaging
This PhD offers the chance to exploit advanced computer simulations to drive experiments, pushing the boundaries of ultrafast science and opening new frontiers in physics and biomedical applications. Join our interdisciplinary team of physicists, chemists, and engineers to develop a cutting-edge femtosecond laser-based source of X-ray pulses for next-generation imaging. -
Chemistry and Chemical Engineering
New reagents and reactions for isotope labelling
The aim of this project is to develop new methods and reagents for isotope labelling. -
Engineering
Computational modelling of reacting multiphase flows in methane pyrolysis for sustainable hydrogen production
This project on methane pyrolysis, a disruptive route to low-cost sustainable hydrogen and valuable carbon black, aims to tackle extreme high-temperature reactive flows and multiphysics challenges with cutting-edge computational fluid dynamics (CFD). It will apply fluid dynamics, heat and mass transfer and high-performance computing to design intensified reactors that could transform the UK and global hydrogen economy. -
Engineering
High-throughput 3D/4D microstructure analysis and feature tracking for alloy design
This project will develop high-throughput program scripts for 3D/4D microstructure analysis and feature tracking to accelerate alloy design based on our developed Track-Rex toolbox. Using advanced microstructure characterisation and deep learning, this project will create automated pipelines linking manufacturing, microstructure evolution, and materials performance, ultimately supporting impactful, interdisciplinary research. -
Physics and astronomy
Supernovae as probes of dark energy: improving precision with next-generation surveys
This project tackles one of the biggest questions in astrophysics: the nature of dark energy. Using new datasets from the Rubin Observatory’s LSST and the TiDES survey, you will analyse tens of thousands of supernovae, develop expertise in data analysis and machine learning, and work at the forefront of international astrophysics. -
Physics and astronomy
Terahertz charge dynamics of nanometals in liquids
This research investigates the electronic behaviour of metal nanoparticles in liquid environments. Using advanced terahertz spectroscopy, you will reveal how particle size, shape, and surroundings govern charge transport. The results will advance fundamental understanding with direct relevance to light harvesting, photonics, and catalytic technologies. -
Engineering | Electronics and Computer Science
Evaluating defect detectability for iteratively reconstructed industrial X-ray computed tomography data
In this project, you will study the influence that different advanced optimization and machine learning algorithms have on the quality of 3D images generated from X-ray computed tomography measurements of industrial components. The focus is on optimising the ability to detect internal object defects that would compromise component safety. -
Engineering
Machine learning methods for high energy X-ray computed tomography scatter correction
In this industry sponsored project, you will develop advanced machine learning tools to detect and remove scatter artefacts from X-ray images acquired with state of the art, high energy X-ray imaging systems, where scatter becomes the dominant source of image artefact. -
Physics and astronomy
Beyond the standard model physics at colliders
The NExT Institute proposes a project on the `HL-LHC upgrade of the CMS hardware trigger and searches for new physics’. The Compact Muon Solenoid (CMS) experiment will upgrade its Level 1 trigger system for High Luminosity Large Hadron Collider (HL-LHC) operation. -
Electronics and Computer Science | Engineering
Dynamic metasurfaces for advanced signal processing
This project aims to design and build software-controlled smart surfaces to shape wireless signals for advanced applications like analogue computation and next-generation communications. It will pioneer active metasurfaces that dynamically steer, process, and amplify electromagnetic waves, blending theoretical modelling, PCB design, and lab testing to create the foundation for future programmable radio environments.