Engineering Materials PhD

The study of engineering materials bridges the gap between the physical sciences, where understanding of atomic and molecular phenomena helps explain fundamental behaviours, and engineering structures, where practical applications of such phenomena are realised. It gives you the chance to explore cutting-edge science to make new discoveries.

Our Centre for Engineering Materials provides world-class analysis of ceramics, metals and polymers, as well as composite materials consisting of two or more of these materials. It explores a range of applications where such materials are being used to bring about improved performance or new products.

We provide a multidisciplinary environment where doctoral students from different disciplines can meet and work together on applied engineering research topics with a direct impact on society.

Our researchers also regularly collaborate with key players in industry, including Rolls-Royce, the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) and Jaguar Land Rover. We’re host to the Rolls-Royce University Technology Centre in Thermo-Fluid Systems.

In the Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021, the University of Surrey ranks 15th in the UK for research power for engineering and top 20 in the UK for the overall quality of research outputs (research papers and other published works).

Our Engineering Materials PhD will give you the knowledge, skills and expertise needed for a career in engineering, research or academia. You’ll be intellectually challenged, develop research and management skills, and become an expert in your chosen field of study.

It normally takes around three years to complete a full-time PhD. You’ll be assigned a minimum of two supervisors, who’ll guide you through your studies. You’ll learn how to conduct literature reviews, develop your ideas and verify them with experiments, and collaborate and perform interdisciplinary research. You will develop your skills over time to become an independent researcher.

Your final assessment will be based on the presentation of your research in a written thesis, which will be discussed in a viva examination with at least two examiners. You have the option of preparing your thesis as a monograph (one large volume in chapter form) or in publication format (including chapters written for publication), subject to the approval of your supervisors.

The professional development of postgraduate researchers is supported by the Doctoral College, which provides training in essential skills through its Researcher Development Programme of workshops, mentoring and coaching. A dedicated postgraduate careers and employability team will help you prepare for a successful career after the completion of your PhD.