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We have 172 Physical Chemistry PhD Projects, Programmes & Scholarships
Physical Chemistry PhD Projects, Programmes & Scholarships
We have 172 Physical Chemistry PhD Projects, Programmes & Scholarships
Are you passionate about the fundamental principles that govern matter and energy? Do you have a keen interest in understanding the physical properties and behavior of molecules and materials? If so, pursuing a PhD in Physical Chemistry could be the perfect next step for you.
What's it like to study a PhD in Physical Chemistry?
Studying a PhD in Physical Chemistry is an exciting and intellectually stimulating journey. As a doctoral student, you will have the opportunity to delve deep into the world of atoms, molecules, and their interactions. You will conduct cutting-edge research, exploring topics such as quantum mechanics, spectroscopy, thermodynamics, and kinetics.
During your PhD, you will work closely with experienced researchers and faculty members who will guide and mentor you throughout your journey. You will have access to state-of-the-art laboratories and advanced equipment, allowing you to conduct experiments and analyze data to uncover new insights into the physical properties of matter.
Entry requirements for a PhD in Physical Chemistry
To pursue a PhD in Physical Chemistry, you will typically need a strong academic background in chemistry or a related field. Most universities require a minimum of a 2.1 Honours degree or equivalent, although some may also consider candidates with a Master's degree. Additionally, having research experience and a solid foundation in mathematics and physics will be advantageous.
PhD in Physical Chemistry funding options
Funding for PhDs in Physical Chemistry may be available from various sources, including governments, universities and charities, business or industry. See our full guides to PhD funding for more information.
PhD in Physical Chemistry careers
A PhD in Physical Chemistry opens up a wide range of career opportunities. Graduates can find employment in academia, industry, and government research laboratories. With your expertise in understanding the fundamental principles of matter and energy, you can contribute to various fields such as materials science, pharmaceuticals, energy research, and environmental science.
In academia, you can pursue a career as a professor or researcher, conducting further research and teaching the next generation of scientists. In industry, you can work in research and development, utilizing your knowledge to develop new materials, improve chemical processes, or contribute to the advancement of technology.
Furthermore, a PhD in Physical Chemistry equips you with valuable skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, data analysis, and communication, which are highly sought after in a wide range of industries. Whether you choose to pursue a career in academia, industry, or beyond, a PhD in Physical Chemistry will provide you with a solid foundation for a successful and fulfilling career.
Metal-free catalysis to make and break C-F bonds
Fluorine-containing molecules are essential in a wide range of applications, including in many pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals. Read more
Development of ceramic thermal and environmental barrier coatings for high temperature applications
Research Group:
Coatings and Ceramics
Ceramic coatings are vital in high-temperature applications, especially in aero-engines and the power generation industry. These coatings increase the engine’s operating temperature to improve efficiency and reduce the engine’s environmental impact. Read more
Functional Sugar-derived Polymers for Sustainable Agricultural Applications
Beyond plastics, polymers play a vital role in our lives as key ingredients of liquid formulations. Read more
Green Polymers from Sugars towards Polyethylene-Like Materials
Polymers are widespread in modern society as they produce light, strong, and cheap plastic materials, with an ever-increasing demand, which are critical to many technologies from consumer goods, electronics to healthcare. Read more
Excited electronic states in Photomedicine
Please contact Professor Martin J. Paterson for further details (M.J.Paterson@hw.ac.uk). This studentship will involve understanding the mechanisms of action in various types of photomedicine, i.e., using light to initiate reactivity. Read more
Ultra High-Field NMR Spectroscopy for Advanced Understanding of Materials
UK graduates are invited to apply for a fully funded 42-month PhD studentship starting in October 2025 in the area of magic angle spinning (MAS) nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) of solids. Read more
Computational design of tailored open-shell conjugated systems
To be successful, organic electronics devices must be able to replicate and surpass the capabilities of conventional silicon-based electronics. Read more
Predicting failure in crystalline materials using machine learning techniques
Single crystal materials are extensively used in components ranging from the smallest (e.g. micro-lens, MEMS devices) to the largest sizes (e.g. Read more
Cellular Automaton to Model Rapid Crystal Growth and Recrystallisation
Texture in materials plays a crucial role in metallic products. A thorough study of the underlying morphology and its evolution is relevant for producing cast parts of innovative technological products. Read more
A Multiscale Investigation of Dislocation-Grain Boundary Interactions in next generation alloys
The goal of this project is to develop a multiscale framework that incorporates continuum dislocation mechanics (CDM) with grain boundary mechanics to understand the interplay between dislocations and grain boundaries (GBs) in metallic alloys. Read more
EPSRC funded PhD in Chemistry - Catalysis under Pressure - Free Radical Detection by EPR
Sustainable Chemistry has revolutionized the way in which products and processes are produced. In simple terms, sustainability in the chemical sciences seeks to enhance the efficiency of natural resources supporting the production of a greener and more resource-efficient future. Read more
Combinatorial Discovery of Peptide Materials as Ice Binding Protein Mimics
Ice Binding Proteins (IBPs) help extremophiles survive in the worlds coldest environments, but are also used by microorganisms to damage hosts by promoting ice formation. Read more
Hydrothermal Processing of Biomass and Organic Waste to Produce Fuel and Value-added Products
In the past decades, an excessive use of fossil fuels due to the steady increase in World’s energy demand had a significant impact on the environment. Read more
Source-specific quantification of ammonia emissions
Background. Ammonia (NH3) has an ever-growing influence on air pollution in the UK and worldwide with numerous considerable impacts such as the formation of secondary particles and nitrogen deposition. Read more
Direct analysis ion mobility mass spectrometry for rapid profiling of edible fats and oils to combat food adulteration
Background. Food safety and authenticity are generally taken for granted, yet food adulteration is one of the most significant challenges faced in the UK, with the total impact of food crime on the UK estimated to be between £409 million and £1.96 billion per year [Food Standards Agency, 2023]. Read more