Current research degree projects
Explore our current postgraduate research degree and PhD opportunities.
Search PhD projects
248 research degree projects
-
Photonics and optoelectronics
Optoelectronic topological metasurfaces for light control
Recent developments in quantum materials and topological design principles are transforming the way we control the flow of light and charges. This project will develop nanostructured metasurfaces where optical and electronic functionalities build upon the fields’ vectorial nature and are codesigned, for a new generation of light-emitting and detecting optoelectronic (meta)devices. -
Engineering
Integrating novel ground investigation techniques for efficient wind farm foundation design
Recent advances in geophysical site surveying and machine learning have enabled the generation of synthetic Cone Penetration Test (CPT) data at arbitrary locations in a potential wind farm. In this project, you will gain skills and undertake research to unlock the potential of these valuable tools for efficient foundation design. -
Photonics and optoelectronics
Amorphous nonlinear photonics for scalable next-generation optical and quantum devices
This project advances amorphous nonlinear photonics by inducing second order optical nonlinearity in amorphous thin films for broadband, on-chip modulators and quantum devices. Combining design, simulation, thermal poling, microfabrication, and characterization, it develops scalable photonic platforms for communication, sensing, and quantum technologies such as on-chip photon pair generation. -
Photonics and optoelectronics | Electronics and Computer Science | Engineering | Physics and astronomy | Mathematical sciences
Energy-efficient multicore fibre amplifiers for future submarine networks
This PhD project develops next-generation multicore fibre amplifiers for sustainable submarine networks. The research combines simulation and experiment to create energy-efficient, high-capacity amplification technologies that reduce power consumption, cost per bit, and enhance future global communication infrastructure. -
Engineering | Electronics and Computer Science | Physics and astronomy
Leveraging machine learning for design optimisation of mechanical metamaterials
The main aim of this PhD is to design advanced and novel mechanical metamaterials that can achieve high levels of noise and vibration isolation. This will be achieved through the application of machine learning and artificial intelligence methodologies to enable optimal design of these emerging noise and vibration control treatments. -
Engineering
Techniques of improvement of fracture toughness in composites and development of multi-scale computational models for the simulation of the crack propagation and prediction of the residual strength
This PhD investigates methods to improve the fracture toughness of carbon fiber composites through experimental testing (Double Cantilever Beam and End Notch Flexure) and multiscale modeling in Ansys. It explores environmental effects and surface modification techniques, providing training in experimental mechanics, materials characterization, and finite element analysis for advanced composite structural performance research. -
Engineering
Rapid Development and Testing of Multifunctional Coatings to Combat Encrustation and Biofilm Formation on Urological Devices
Urological stents often suffer from encrustation and biofilm formation, causing infections and device failure. This project develops multilayer antimicrobial coatings and enhances a microfluidic test platform to simulate urinary conditions. The goal is rapid, pre-clinical evaluation of new stent coatings to prevent infection and accelerate clinical translation. -
Engineering | Electronics and Computer Science | Psychology | Medicine | Health sciences
Driving simulation for assessment and rehabilitation
This PhD explores how driving simulators can be used to assess and train driving skills, and support rehabilitation following injury, illness, or disability. The mixed-method, interdisciplinary project will investigate their potential as consistent, objective assessment tools as well as their impact on the recovery of cognitive, sensory, and motor skills. -
Engineering
3D printed porous metamaterials for protective packaging of high-value objects
High value and irreplaceable items such as precision instrumentation and museum objects must be packaged extremely carefully to protect them from shock and vibration during transportation. 3D printed metamaterials offer the potential for novel, sustainable packaging solutions with substantially improved performance compared to conventional materials. -
Engineering | Mathematical sciences
Community Noise Prediction for eVTOL aircraft during flight phase transition
This PhD project investigates noise from eVTOL aircraft during transitional flight phases, aiming to improve prediction methods and assess perceived noise using virtual reality. It supports design-performance trade-offs, informs policy, and contributes to quieter, more acceptable urban air mobility systems through semi-empirical modelling and integration with whole-aircraft noise tools.