Organic Chemistry PhD Projects, Programmes & Scholarships

PhD in Organic Chemistry involves the study of the structure, properties, preparation and reactions of organic compounds.

What's it like to study a PhD in Organic Chemistry?

As an Organic Chemistry PhD student, you'll spend most of your time working in a laboratory, either carrying out original research or working towards an independent study thesis. Some research projects will have a clinical or health focus, but many are purely academic.

Possible research areas include:

• Bioprocess engineering
• Polymer chemistry
• Nano materials
• Chemical biology
• Organic materials chemistry

Some Organic Chemistry research projects have a specific focus, such as the impact of anthropogenic activity on the water cycle, or will sit within a wider area of research in chemistry.

It's likely you'll work with a supervisor or a team of researchers with a similar research focus. You'll likely have regular meetings with your supervisor to review your progress, and to consult on any changes to your project.

Most PhDs in Organic Chemistry will require you to write an 80,000-word thesis to be defended in an oral viva examination at the end of your study.

Entry requirements for a PhD in Organic Chemistry

The minimum entry requirement for a PhD in Organic Chemistry is usually a 2:1 undergraduate degree in a relevant subject, such as Biology, Chemistry or Physics, along with a Masters qualification. You may be asked to submit a research proposal as part of your application.

PhD in Organic Chemistry funding options 

In the UK, PhDs in Organic Chemistry are funded by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) or Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC). Projects will usually have funding attached, meaning you'll automatically be awarded coverage of your tuition fees and living costs, along with a tax-free stipend, if you're accepted onto one.

Some students can also apply for separate funding, which is sometimes offered through the university or through a charity or trust.

PhD in Organic Chemistry careers

With expertise in organic chemistry, you could go on to do almost anything! You could work in pharmaceuticals, forensics, chemical engineering, forensics, energy or food. You could also work for the government or in academia.