Information and Communication Systems PhD

Why choose this course

The University of Surrey’s Institute for Communication Systems is the largest academic research centre in the UK specialising in information and communications technology, with over 160 academics, research fellows and PhD students. You’ll be taught by leading experts in the field, gain excellent employment prospects and become part of our thriving postgraduate research community.

We’re specialists in mobile and wireless networks, satellite communications and networks, internet of things, cloud computing, cybersecurity, big data, future networks architecture and protocols. We’re widely recognised for our original contributions to society, our rigorous use of new technologies and techniques, and our impact on the wider economy.

Our strong track records in research include high quality publications, patents and excellent PhD graduates working in network operators, manufacture, regulators and standard organisation activities. We’re deeply involved in research programmes funded by UK Research Councils, the European Framework programme, European Space Agency and industries. We also have strong collaborative research internationally with universities and research institutes in China, Europe, US, Japan and Korea.

You’ll benefit from our cutting-edge facilities, including a 5G, satellite and internet of things testbed, an anechoic chamber and wideband channel sounder.

ShanghaiRanking’s Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU) ranked our telecommunication engineering subjects as the 45th best in the world in 2019.

What you will study

It normally takes three to four years of full-time study to complete our PhD.

You’ll be assigned two supervisors, who will guide you through your PhD. Your supervisors will give you direction and experience of the cutting-edge technologies in their areas of expertise. They’ll also give you the support you need to complete your PhD, from giving you guidance and feedback on your work to helping you frame your research proposal. Though you’ll primarily be in contact with your two supervisors, you’ll also work with other staff within the Institute for Communications Systems, and may have the opportunity to become a team member on particular research projects.

You’ll be required to write a confirmation report on your research, and be examined by two examiners. After that, you’ll submit a thesis in your third or fourth year, and complete a viva examination with both internal and external examiners.

Research support

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.