Materials Research and Innovation Specialisms, MPhil/PhD

Mode of attendance: Full-time: supervisory arrangements will be agreed with the research coordinator. On average, you will be expected to see your tutor for an update on progress once a week.

Durations: 3 years: PhD, 1.5 years: MPhil

Start dates: Throughout the year: the date for commencement of study will be agreed with your supervisor.

Course overview

The MPhil/PhD in Materials Research and Innovation is particularly suitable for graduates in the materials science, engineering and technology sectors or for scientists and technologists working in these sectors.

As a research student you will have access to the University’s resources and research expertise to support your personal development or your work within your organisation.

In the 2008 Research Assessment Exercise, general engineering research at the University, which includes work carried out by IMRI, was assessed as 'world-leading'.

Subject overview

IMRI is a multi-disciplinary centre designed to cultivate research and innovation activities in collaboration with industry and other academic institutions. The institute leads the UK, and is internationally known, for its strong applied materials science and engineering applications through the development of new, designer and novel smart and multifunctional materials (fibres, films, foams and particles) at nano and micro levels, as well as associated processing technologies.

There are dedicated laboratories in the institute and state-of-the-art materials fabrication, characterisation and testing laboratories complemented by a suite of materials modelling capabilities.

IMRI also regularly carries out consultancy work for national as well as international clients. Staff also serve on technical advisory boards, international scientific panels and hold honorary appointments in overseas universities.

IMRI is currently funded by the UK government (EPSRC and Technology Strategy Board), local industry consortia (DIUS), the EU (FP7) and international industry collaborations.

Research topics

Skills and expertise within IMRI include: medical and healthcare devices; intelligent materials (auxetic, piezoelectric, photovoltaic and electrorheological); smart microsystems (MEMS, self-powered sensors and actuators, surface acoustic waves, solar cells, nanomanipulators, wearables); technical textiles and fire retardancy.

Projects

Research projects currently being carried out within IMRI include the following:

• Piezoelectric, photovoltaic and solar cell systems for sustainable power regeneration;
• Miniaturised biosensors and actuators for early diagnosis of pathogenic and chronic diseases (including, breast cancer, prostate cancer, and vulnerable heart plaque);
• Wearable chemical-release self-powered and controlled devices for in vitro treatment (including, wound, antimicrobial, thermophysiological comfort and performance sports);
• Functional fibre blends with fire retardant nano particles and encapsulants for protective textiles (including, fire fighting suits, bullet and knife proof police vests and composites);
• Synthesis, applications and mechanisms of action of drugs and metallodrugs.

Entry requirements

For the MPhil you should have at least a lower second class honours degree (2.2) in a relevant subject; upon satisfactory progress you will be able to transfer to the PhD.

To be considered for direct registration for the PhD you should also have an MSc (or other postgraduate qualification) in a relevant subject. This possibility will be discussed at the time of application.

You are also encouraged to apply if you have alternative qualifications or experience that demonstrate you have the appropriate knowledge and skills to begin doctorate-level study.

If you have an honours degree only you will initially register as an MPhil student. After the first period of study, leading to substantial outcomes at this level, progress will be reviewed in the institute and by the Board of Study for Research Degrees. Subject to satisfactory review, you can, if you so wish, upgrade to PhD level.

If English is not your first language you will need a recognised English language qualification at the appropriate level for this course, i.e. IELTS 6.5 or equivalent.

You will also need to attend an interview to discuss your readiness for study and to identify suitable areas for research. In the case of international applicants the interviews are conducted over the internet or by telephone.

How to apply

Please contact the IMRI Director for initial enquiries and to discuss your proposed area of study.

To apply for admission to a programme of study leading to a higher degree you must complete the University's research degree application form and return it to the Institute for Materials Research and Innovation.

Please visit our 'how to apply for an MPhil or PhD research degree' web page for details.

Further Information

For an informal discussion and further details about the course please contact:

Prof. Elias Siores (CMRI Director)
Tel: +44 (0)1204 903501
E-mail: E.Siores@bolton.ac.uk

For enquiries regarding application forms and other administrative issues please contact:

Bilkis Yusuf (Research Student Administrator, Institute for Materials Research and Innovation)
Tel: +44 (0) 1204 903549
Email: B.Yusof@bolton.ac.uk

For general information about the University of Bolton please contact:

Enquiry Team (Student Services)
Tel: +44 (0)1204 903903
Email:enquiries@bolton.ac.uk