Perform cutting-edge research with our Research Groups. Each 12 month project is unique, as the frontiers of research advance.

The chemistry groups active research themes include:

Nanomaterials (e.g. magnetic nanoparticles and carbon dots)

Nuclear materials (e.g. zeolites and ion-exchange materials)

Biomaterials (e.g. lipid nanostructures and molecularly imprinted polymers biosensors)

Organic materials (Photoactive dyes)

Organometallics and catalysts

Polymers

Microwave technology

Materials processes

Theoretical modelling

Activities are located in purpose-built research laboratories within the JB Firth Building. The building boasts a well-equipped analytical instrumentation suite.

You will take part in the day-to-day activity of an active research group. You'll complete a research project designed by you in collaboration with the group leader. You will use the latest world-class equipment to perform research in your chosen topic. Benefit from personal guidance from one of our world-leading academic staff.

Research is open-ended in nature, and it will be up to you to follow interesting leads and draw conclusions. You will also benefit from the experience and skill of your supervisor, who will always be available to suggest next steps. Well equip you with outstanding research skills & the potential to advance within your chosen field.

The nature of the work means that you will gain a great deal of broad experience, from technical expertise to networking skills and project management. Such experience is in great demand from employers, as it shows that you have the ability to take ownership of a project and drive it to completion.

Future careers

MSc by Research degrees represent an ideal combination of timescale and topic. You choose what to do, and our experienced researchers help you do it effectively. You dont have to commit 4 years, as for a PhD (though an MSc by Research can be a great route if you plan to subsequently enter PhD research). Where a PhD typically completes 3-4 projects for their thesis, you will complete 1. Youll gain all of the benefit that is relevant for employment outside academia.