Current research degree projects
Explore our current postgraduate research degree and PhD opportunities.
275 research degree projects
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Engineering
Crack-to-leak: cryogenic damage mechanisms and fracture toughness of composites for future on-aircraft liquid hydrogen fuel storage
This project aims to understand how carbon fibre composite materials are affected by extremely cold temperatures (around 20 Kelvin, or -253°C), using both experiments and computer simulations. This research is crucial for designing fuel tanks that can safely store liquid hydrogen on aircraft. -
Electronics and Computer Science
Risk management for robust Machine Learning Operations (MLOps)
MLOps refers to the processes for developing and maintaining machine learning systems. Robust MLOps ensure reliability under uncertainty, adversarial conditions, and distributional shifts. Given the massive growth of ML-based projects across scientific fields, effectively managing risks to MLOps robustness has become non-negotiable. -
Engineering
Mapping plant biomechanical potential for slope stability under changing climates
Landslides threaten lives and millions in damages across Great Britain, and climate change is making this worse. This project maps how plants can naturally stabilize slopes amid shifting weather extremes, pioneering sustainable, bioengineered solutions to protect infrastructure and communities in an uncertain future. -
Electronics and Computer Science
Artificial Medical Intelligence for precision and preventive healthcare
This PhD project focuses on Artificial Medical Intelligence, creating AI tools that anticipate risks rather than respond after disease develops. By integrating real-world health data, you will develop digital twins and predictive models to guide prevention and personalised care, combining machine learning innovation with clinical collaboration to improve outcomes. -
Photonics and optoelectronics
Computational physics of high‑power fibre lasers: from nonlinear dynamics to next‑generation applications
This project will use advanced theory and computer simulations to uncover the fundamental processes that restrict laser performance, helping design the next generation of lasers for science, industry, and healthcare. -
Physics and astronomy
How do giant storms form in fast-rotating planets?
This project aims to explore the turbulent atmosphere of Jupiter using cutting-edge 3D climate simulations. It combines high-performance computing, advanced modelling, and international collaboration to uncover the mechanisms behind giant storms, multiple jets, and exotic weather. -
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. -
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.