Nottingham Trent University

What you'll study

NTU PhD students undertake an original research project under the guidance of one or more academic supervisors. Programmes are driven by a research proposal agreed at application and typically involve a combination of laboratory or field work, computational modelling, theoretical development and critical literature review. Students focus on producing a substantial thesis that contributes new knowledge to their chosen discipline.

Common research themes in the Faculty of Science and Technology include advanced materials and composites, pharmaceutical and biomedical sciences, environmental and agricultural technologies, robotics and autonomous systems, data science and artificial intelligence, and chemical and process engineering. Projects can be experimental, computational or interdisciplinary and often draw on expertise from NTU research centres and industry partners.

Training expectations include regular supervisory meetings, participation in research seminars, attendance at skills workshops (research methods, ethics, statistics, project management and academic writing), and contribution to research group activity. Students may also be encouraged to publish papers in peer-reviewed journals, present at conferences, and undertake taught or professional development modules where relevant.

Entry requirements

Applicants normally need a relevant master's degree with a research component or an honours degree with substantial research experience and a convincing research proposal. Selection is based on the academic record, the feasibility and originality of the proposed project, and the availability of suitable supervisors. Previous laboratory, fieldwork or computational experience appropriate to the project is advantageous.

All applicants must demonstrate the ability to undertake doctoral-level research, and applicants whose first language is not English must meet NTU's English language requirements. Candidates who do not meet the usual entry criteria but who have significant professional or research experience may be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Prospective students should contact potential supervisors to discuss project ideas before formal application. Successful candidates will normally be asked to provide references and, where required, attend an interview or provide a research presentation as part of the selection process.

Career prospects

A PhD from NTU prepares graduates for a wide range of careers. Many go on to postdoctoral positions and academic roles; others move into research and development, innovation, and technical leadership roles in industry. Graduates are also employed in government research organisations, regulatory bodies, healthcare and pharmaceutical companies, environmental consultancies, and technology start-ups.

Doctoral training develops transferable skills valued by employers, including project management, problem solving, advanced data analysis, scientific communication, and grant writing. These skills support career paths in policy, consultancy, intellectual property and commercialisation, as well as leadership roles in engineering, IT and bioscience sectors.

Why study at Nottingham Trent University

NTU offers a supportive doctoral environment with a strong emphasis on applied and interdisciplinary research. Students benefit from access to modern laboratory facilities, specialist equipment and high-performance computing, alongside active research groups and centres working on industry-relevant challenges.

The university maintains strong links with regional, national and international industry partners, providing opportunities for collaborative projects, placements and knowledge exchange. NTU's research staff include experienced supervisors with track records in obtaining research funding and publishing in their fields, and doctoral candidates receive formal training and development through structured researcher development programmes.

Beyond research resources, NTU provides pastoral and careers support for doctoral students, helping them navigate their studies and prepare for the next stage of their careers. The university's location and network also support collaboration with external stakeholders and access to wider research communities.