Course summary

The vision of this MRes+PhD is to deliver bespoke training in key areas of nanoscience and nanotechnology to translate exploratory nanoscience into impactful technologies, and to stimulate new interdisciplinary interactions that support our vision. The MRes year provides high-quality advanced-level training through lecture courses, hands-on practicals and two short and one longer experimental projects, prior to final selection of interdisciplinary PhD research projects between two research groups in the Departments of Physics, Chemistry, Engineering, Materials Science or another relevant department across the University. A significant element of the MRes training and beyond will be a focus on innovation and industry engagement, including courses on nurturing and managing innovation in a scientific context, systems design and integration of nanomaterials and devices, the responsible practice and communication of science, and opportunities to transition academic research to higher technology readiness levels and commercial applications through schemes such as the NanoFutures Leadership Awards. Professional skills training and cohort-based activities are other important elements of the programme which are included in the MRes year as well as the PhD phase. Formal training in science communication during the MRes year is complemented by a range of cross-cohort events throughout the programme, such as student-led conferences, research seminars, onsite and offsite research and career development workshops led by internal and external experts and other activities. The programme is suited to students who are keen to move beyond the silo of a single scientific discipline, to develop a holistic research approach that is problem focussed, and to be part of a vibrant research community. The programme welcomes applicants from across the physical sciences including Chemistry, Physics, Materials, Engineering and any other subject that gives applicants a good background to undertake a PhD in nanoscience and nanotechnology. Students completing the programme go on to careers in industry and academia, and a significant number have also set up their own startups