Mechanical Engineering - PhD

The Mechanical Engineering Group in School of Engineering offers a Masters by Research (MRes) as well as a PhD programme in Mechanical Engineering. A full time MRes is a one year programme that leads to a research thesis. The duration for PhD programme is three years.

The MRes and PhD research-led degrees in the Mechanical Engineering Group will allow you to undertake cutting-edge projects in advanced fields of Mechanical Engineering. These research fields include: The School has state-of-the-art facilities and experimental equipment to support students’ research such as 3-D printer, wind tunnel, dynamic testing machines, mechatronic units and non-destructive testing (NDT) equipment. The School provides research students the opportunity to participate in regular research seminars and workshops.

We also offer research students the possibility of attending international conferences organised by Mechanical Engineering societies to present their work. Whereas a taught Masters develops expertise in existing subject knowledge, an MSc by Research places more emphasis on research and practical expertise and is project-based rather than module-based. An MSc by Research can focus on individual research skills, providing a strong foundation to build on for students considering a doctoral degree (PhD).

Alternatively, our MSc by Research can be done via a practice-based approach, which is more orientated toward the industry. It is well structured, with clearly defined tasks to be completed, which will eventually lead to the final dissertation. Established over 40 years ago, the School has developed a top-quality teaching and research base, receiving excellent ratings in both research and teaching assessments.

We undertake high-quality research that has had significant national and international impact, and our spread of expertise allows us to respond rapidly to new developments. As a postgraduate student in the School of Engineering, you receive support through individual supervision, specialised seminars and colloquia, usually with external speakers. We also offer a range of financial support options.

Our 30 academic staff and over 130 postgraduate students and research staff provide an ideal focus to effectively support a high level of research activity. There is a thriving student population studying for postgraduate degrees in a friendly and supportive teaching and research environment. We have research funding from the Research Councils UK, European research programmes, a number of industrial and commercial companies and government agencies including the Ministry of Defence.

Many of our research projects are collaborative, and we have well-developed links with institutions worldwide.