Broaden your knowledge with a PhD from the Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences

The range and scope of our research is extensive. Our multidisciplinary research community brings engineers and scientists together to tackle matters of global importance.

Broaden your knowledge with a PhD

Whether you’re looking to begin an academic career or want to develop your skills and expertise for a career in industry, studying for a PhD will be a journey that will stimulate your passion for your subject.

Learn more about our facilities and associated expertise, and research partnerships.

Research areas and degrees

Chemical and process engineering research degrees

Over 80% of our research activity is 'world leading' or 'internationally excellent', according to the latest Research Excellence Framework.

Research areas include:

• Advanced engineering materials
• Sustainable systems and processes
• Innovative manufacturing and products

Chemistry research degrees

95% of our research activity is 'world leading' or 'internationally excellent' according to the latest Research Excellence Framework.

Research areas include:

• Atmospheric and planetary chemistry
• Chemical biology and medicinal chemistry
• Colour and polymer science
• Computational chemistry and chemical physics
• Crystallisation and directed assembly
• Process research and development

Civil engineering research degrees

85% of our research activity is 'world leading' or 'internationally excellent' according to the latest Research Excellence Framework.

Research areas include:

• Cities and infrastructure
• Energy and sustainable buildings
• Materials and structures
• Water, public health and environmental engineering

Computing research degrees

Over 85% of our research activity is 'world leading' or 'internationally excellent', according to the latest Research Excellence Framework.

Research areas include:

• Artificial Intelligence (AI)
• Applied computing in biology, medicine and health
• Algorithms and complexity
• Distributed systems and services
• Computational science and engineering
• Computational medicine

Electronic and electrical engineering research degrees

100% of our research activity is 'world leading' or 'internationally excellent', according to the latest Research Excellence Framework.

Research areas include:

• Communication networks and systems
• Smart energy systems
• Wireless communications
• Terahertz electronics and photonics
• Bio-nanoelectronics
• Quantum electronics and communications
• Microwave and millimetre-wave engineering
• Robotics, including surgical robotics, ultrasonics, sensing and control
• Assistive and rehabilitation robotics

View our medical electronics research spotlight.

Mathematics research degrees

Over 85% of our research activity is 'world leading' or 'internationally excellent', according to the latest Research Excellence Framework.

Research areas include:

• Applied nonlinear dynamics
• Algebra, geometry and integrable systems
• Complex materials and industrial mathematics
• Analysis
• Probability and financial mathematics
• Statistical methodology and probability
• Astrophysical and geophysical fluid dynamics
• Mathematical biology and medicine
• Logic
• Modern applied statistics

Mechanical engineering research degrees

Over 80% of our research activity is 'world leading' or 'internationally excellent', according to the latest Research Excellence Framework.

Research areas include:

• Bio-mechatronics and robotics
• Design sciences
• Energy-efficient automotive and aerospace structures
• Surgical technologies
• Future manufacturing processes
• Tribology
• Surface engineering
• Corrosion and flow assurance
• Medical and biological engineering
• Thermofluids

Physics research degrees

90% of our research activity is 'world leading' or 'internationally excellent', according to the latest Research Excellence Framework.

Research areas include:

• Astrophysics
• Condensed matter
• Molecular and nanoscale physics
• Soft matter physics
• Theoretical physics
• Physics education

Leeds Doctoral College

Leeds Doctoral College brings together support services and opportunities to enhance your University experience.

How to apply

Visit phd.leeds.ac.uk search projects, funded CDTs, funding, research areas and PhD supervisors.