PhD Institute of Mechanical, Process and Energy Engineering

The IMPEE PhD program is offered full-time at the Edinburgh campus and focuses on multidisciplinary research across four main themes: Biomedical Engineering, Computational & Digital Engineering, Energy Harvesting & Conversion, and Multiphase Flow. The institute is home to more than 30 academics and approximately 100 postgraduate researchers, creating a thriving and collaborative research environment.

IMPEE maintains strong industrial connections, collaborating with a wide range of sectors to identify cutting-edge research challenges. Students benefit from extensive laboratory and workshop facilities, alongside engagement in high-profile regional, national, and international projects.

Graduates emerge well-prepared for careers in academia, industry, or public sector research, especially in fields aligned with net-zero and sustainable technology goals.

Heriot-Watt University is a prestigious and globally recognised public research university based in Edinburgh, Scotland. Established in 1821 as the world’s first mechanics institute, it has grown into one of the UK’s leading institutions for science, engineering, business, and design. With a strong focus on practical, industry-aligned education and research, Heriot-Watt is known for producing work-ready graduates and impactful research that addresses real-world challenges.

The university has a strong industry focus, with close partnerships in sectors like oil and gas, energy, construction, finance, and manufacturing. This industry engagement is reflected in both its curriculum and research output, offering students opportunities to work on real-world projects and internships. Many of its degree programs are professionally accredited and aligned with industry standards.

Heriot-Watt University offers a compelling combination of academic excellence, global reach, and career-oriented education. It is an ideal choice for students who want to gain internationally respected qualifications in a research-driven, industry-focused environment. Whether pursuing undergraduate, postgraduate, or doctoral studies, students benefit from high-quality teaching, excellent facilities, and strong connections to global employers.

To apply, you will need to submit a personal statement outlining your interest and qualifications, a reference from an academic or employer, and a CV detailing your relevant work experience.

Grade Requirements:

• Applicants are required to hold relevant UK degree qualifications for the programme.
• Relevant equivalent international qualifications will also be considered.

English Proficiency:

• Applicants from non-English-speaking backgrounds must achieve a minimum overall IELTS score of 6.0, with a minimum of 5.5 in each component.
• Equivalent test scores, such as TOEFL or PTE, are also accepted.

For international students enrolling in the PhD Institute of Mechanical, Process and Energy Engineering in Heriot-Watt University for the 2025/2026 academic year, the tuition fee is £25480.

Heriot-Watt University's Institute of Mechanical, Process and Energy Engineering (IMPEE) offers various scholarships for PhD research, primarily for UK students, but some opportunities are available for exceptional overseas applicants. These scholarships usually cover tuition fees and provide a stipend for living expenses for a minimum of 3.5 years. International students are encouraged to explore and apply through the university's scholarship portal.

This program prepares graduates to pursue diverse careers, with potential roles including:

• Product Development Engineer
• Data Scientists
• Patent Attorney/Engineer
• Consultant (Technical/Engineering)
• R&D Engineer/Engineer

Applications for this course may be submitted through UCAS or the university's international application form. For additional assistance, please consult with our trained counsellors.