Up to 13 fully funded four-year studentships available every year. Applications for Oct 2026 are now OPEN!.
The Inorganic Materials for Advanced Manufacturing Centre for Doctoral Training (IMAT CDT) is an EPSRC-funded multi-disciplinary programme. Our focus is on training the next generation of doctoral scientists in the design, synthesis and characterisation of inorganic materials, relevant to the future prosperity of the manufacturing sector.
Training Programme: The IMAT CDT is based in the Departments of Chemistry and Materials of the University of Oxford. Our programme uses a unique cohort-based training model, designed in collaboration with 19 industrial partners, to provide a holistic understanding of all aspects of the advanced materials manufacturing process. During the first six months, students are trained in a single cohort, through a series of taught courses and a short industrial internship. From the second half of year one, you will focus primarily on your substantive research project, which you will choose during the application process. Throughout the four years of the course you will also receive a programme tailored to broaden your research and professional skills.
Research projects: The key focus of all IMAT projects will be in inorganic materials, they are collaborative, and students will have two supervisors. You will find a list of projects, along with brief summary of what these will involve, and the contact details of the supervisory team on our website. Projects available for the 2026 cohort will be listed on our website from September. CDT applicants are encouraged to read through the available projects and list their three preferred projects in order of preference in their application form.
Applications: We encourage applications from candidates with a broad range of backgrounds and an interest in inorganic materials. Applications are particularly welcome and encouraged from women, black and other minority group candidates, who are under-represented in STEM. Apply now
Why join the IMAT CDT:
- Unique doctoral level training in inorganic materials, delivered by more than 60 academic and industrial experts.
- Fully funded studentships that will cover course fees and a living stipend for four years. Places available for home and overseas applicants.
- An enhanced student experience: you will be part of a diverse and connected community.
What other CDT students say:
Quote 1: “Learning about a broad spectrum of challenges and techniques from in-lab and industrial perspective helps you to examine problems from different angles and you meet a lot of inspiring people who are passionate about their fields.”
Quote 2: “Having a supportive network is unique and something I would not have had access to with a more traditional PhD. Being part of a cohort creates a real sense of comradery and togetherness, making the transition to graduate studies much less daunting.”
Quote 3:“As a mature student, I was nervous about embarking on a PhD, but being a part of a CDT has been an amazing experience. I love being part of a cohort.”
