Brunel University Uxbridge

Programme overview

This PhD is a research degree in civil engineering offered on a full-time (three years) or part-time (six years) basis with start points in January, April or October. Research supervision is central: applicants are encouraged to contact potential supervisors and will join supervisory teams that mentor original research across a wide range of civil engineering topics. An MPhil exit option is also available.

What you'll study

The programme does not follow taught modules; instead you pursue an independent research project under supervision. Research activity across the department includes urban waste management, bio-based building products, natural fibre composites, structural response to fire, impact and seismic loading, and coastal engineering problems such as wave dynamics and resilience to storm surges, tsunamis, earthquakes and landslides. Example supervised topics advertised by staff include AI-enabled autonomous robots for non-disruptive inspection of utility and sewage systems; dynamics of seawater intrusion in heterogeneous coastal aquifers; and stray current induced corrosion in railway construction. You will also have access to subject-relevant research groups and campus facilities.

Entry requirements

The normal UK entry requirement is a First or Upper Second Class Honours degree (1st or 2:1). Applicants must submit a personal statement and a research statement; it is recommended to seek feedback from a proposed supervisor before application. Shortlisted candidates are interviewed by at least two academic staff via MS Teams, Zoom or face to face. International entry requirements are listed by country on the programme pages.

Career prospects

The department provides tailored careers support during the PhD and for up to three years after completion, encouraging early career planning. Opportunities include one-to-one careers consultations, industry insight events, recruitment fairs, and the possibility of paid teaching and learning support duties where available. Graduates commonly move into research roles, academia, specialist engineering positions in industry, or related technical and consultancy careers aligned with their doctoral research.

Scholarships & funding angle

Fees for 2026/27 are published on the programme page (UK £5,238; International £24,795). The university promotes research support through the Graduate School and its Researcher Development Programme, which offers training, workshops and online courses. Prospective applicants should consult Brunel's fees and funding information and contact potential supervisors about funding opportunities relevant to specific research projects.