PHD Ceramics, Glasses and Polymers

Program Overview

The PhD program in Ceramics, Glasses, and Polymers at Sheffield Hallam University is a comprehensive doctoral study in materials science, providing advanced knowledge and research skills in ceramics, glasses, or polymers. Emphasizing independent research and mentorship, the program equips students with training in cutting-edge facilities and fosters collaboration through the MERI Research Colloquium. Graduates pursue careers in various industries, including Unilever, Diamond Light Source, and GSK.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

This PhD program in Ceramics, Glasses, and Polymers is a full-time, four-year program offered by Sheffield Hallam University's Materials and Engineering Research Institute (MERI). It provides a comprehensive doctoral study experience within the field of materials science, focusing on ceramics, glasses, or polymers. The program aims to equip students with advanced knowledge and research skills in their chosen area of specialization. Students will conduct extensive research under the guidance of experienced faculty members, utilizing cutting-edge facilities at MERI. The program emphasizes independent research, mentorship, and participation in the MERI Research Colloquium, fostering a collaborative and supportive learning environment.

Teaching:

The program's teaching approach emphasizes independent research, with students benefiting from the support and expertise of their supervisory team. This team includes a Director of Studies and a second supervisor who specialize in the student's chosen research area. The program incorporates various learning methods, including:

• Independent research: Students conduct their research independently, guided by their supervisors.
• Mentoring: Students receive regular guidance and support from their supervisory team.
• Laboratory training: Students receive hands-on training in MERI's state-of-the-art facilities.
• Research and teacher training: Students receive training in research methodologies and teaching skills.
• Ethical research training: Students are trained in ethical research practices.
• Participation in the MERI Research Colloquium: Students present their research at the MERI Research Colloquium, fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing.
• Presenting posters and oral presentations: Students present their research findings through posters and oral presentations at conferences and other events.

Careers:

Graduates of this program have secured positions in various industries, including:

• Unilever
• Diamond Light Source
• Schlumberger
• Akzo Nobel
• GSK
• Pfizer
• Fisher Scientific
• Agilent
• Sheffield Hallam University

Other:

The program offers opportunities for students to engage in applied learning through:

• Live projects: Students can apply to national facilities to conduct large-scale, sophisticated experiments.
• Networking opportunities: Students participate in the MERI Research Colloquium, presenting posters and oral presentations, and have opportunities to present at research conferences in the UK and abroad.

Home students:

Our tuition fee for UK postgraduate research students starting full-time study in 2024/25 is £4,786 per year. Information on whether a bench fee is chargeable can be provided by the relevant Research Institute, and will be confirmed in your offer letter.

International students:

Our tuition fee for International/EU postgraduate research students starting full-time study in 2024/25 is £17,205 per year. Information on whether a bench fee is chargeable can be provided by the relevant Research Institute, and will be confirmed in your offer letter.