University of Nottingham

What you'll study

The PhD is primarily an original research project supervised by one or more members of academic staff in the School of Chemistry. Students normally specialise in one of the School's broad research areas, which include organic and medicinal chemistry, inorganic and coordination chemistry, physical and theoretical chemistry, materials and polymer chemistry, catalysis, supramolecular chemistry, chemical biology and spectroscopy. Projects can be fundamental or applied and often span disciplinary boundaries, for example combining synthesis with advanced characterisation, computational modelling, or biological testing.

While there are no compulsory taught modules, many students take postgraduate courses, training modules and skills workshops relevant to their project. Typical elements of the programme include:

• a detailed literature review and formulation of research objectives;
• experimental or computational research work in laboratory groups or shared facilities;
• regular meetings with supervisors and progress monitoring through formal reviews;
• training in research skills such as advanced instrumentation, data analysis, research integrity and health and safety;
• transferable skills training covering scientific communication, project management and career development;
• preparation of a written thesis and an oral viva voce examination.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a relevant honours degree with a very good classification (for example a UK first-class or upper second-class honours) and normally a recognised master’s degree in chemistry or a closely related discipline, or an equivalent combination of qualifications and research experience. Exceptional candidates with a strong undergraduate record and significant research experience may also be considered.

Admissions require a match between the applicant's research interests and the expertise of academic staff; applicants should be able to outline a possible research project or indicate preferred supervisors when applying. Additional application materials typically include a CV, academic transcripts, a personal statement or research proposal, and academic references. International applicants must meet the School's English language requirements, with recognised test scores or equivalent evidence of proficiency.

Career prospects

Graduates from the PhD programme move into a wide range of careers. Many continue in academic research and teaching through postdoctoral positions and fellowships. Others join industrial research and development teams in sectors such as pharmaceuticals, fine chemicals, materials, energy and agrochemicals. PhD training also opens opportunities in analytical and instrumentation companies, technology transfer and start-up ventures, regulatory science, patent work, consultancy, science policy and communication. The transferable and technical skills developed during the PhD are valued across public and private sectors.

Why study at University of Nottingham

The School of Chemistry at the University of Nottingham is a research-active environment with established expertise across experimental and computational chemistry. Students benefit from access to a wide range of core and advanced facilities—such as NMR spectroscopy, X-ray crystallography, mass spectrometry, electron microscopy and specialist synthetic and analytical laboratories—together with links to interdisciplinary centres across the university.

The School emphasises supportive supervision and structured researcher development. Doctoral researchers are integrated into research groups, attend seminars and symposia, and have opportunities to collaborate with external partners in industry and research councils. The University also provides central training in career development and researcher skills to help PhD students prepare for diverse careers after graduation.