Topological Design PhD with Integrated Study
University of Birmingham
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Qualification

PhD/DPhil - Doctor of Philosophy

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University of Birmingham

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Full Time

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Start date

APR-25

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Duration

4 years

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Qualification

PhD/DPhil - Doctor of Philosophy

Location

University of Birmingham

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Full Time

Start date

JAN

Duration

4 years

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Qualification

PhD/DPhil - Doctor of Philosophy

Location

University of Birmingham

Study mode

Full Time

Start date

APR-25

Duration

4 years

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Materials Technology
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Course info

The Centre for Doctoral Training in Topological Design draws on expert researchers from across the Sciences and Engineering, who use topological principles to make new discoveries and design new materials and devices with unusual mechanical, optical, electronic and magnetic properties.Topological Design is concerned with the functionality of an object or device derived from its shape rather than the material it is made from. Topology is the branch of mathematics that describes properties of ...Read more

The Centre for Doctoral Training in Topological Design draws on expert researchers from across the Sciences and Engineering, who use topological principles to make new discoveries and design new materials and devices with unusual mechanical, optical, electronic and magnetic properties.

Topological Design is concerned with the functionality of an object or device derived from its shape rather than the material it is made from. Topology is the branch of mathematics that describes properties of objects which are preserved under continuous deformations (such as stretching, bending, twisting and crumpling).

Our programme, 1 year taught + 3 years research, includes:

  • 1st year taught courses covering all aspects of Topological Science (including Condensed Matter Physics, Electromagnetic and Microwave Engineering and Materials Science);
  • 1st year mini-projects in theoretical and experimental groups, and an industrial internship;
  • A 3-year cutting-edge research project in specialist research teams with world-leading research profiles and facilities, with themes in quantum physics and technology, mechanical and vibration engineering, electromagnetism and photonics, manufacturing and 3D printing, soft matter and chemistry, health and life sciences and many more.

Why study Topological Design PhD with Integrated Study at Birmingham?

  • Topological Design is concerned with the functionality of an object or device derived from its shape rather than the material it is made from. Topology is the branch of mathematics that describes properties of objects which are preserved under continuous deformations (such as stretching, bending, twisting and crumpling).
  • In the last few years, topological concepts have reshaped our understanding of Condensed Matter, Optics and Photonics, Ultra-cold atoms and the Mechanics of Materials, and exploiting topological properties has the potential to revolutionise technology.
  • The University of Birmingham has been at the forefront of Topological Science. Historically, the worlds of Topology and Physics merged with the seminal work of Profs Tony Skyrme, David Thouless and Michael Kosterlitz at Birmingham, the latter two received the Physics Nobel prize in 2016 for opening “the door on an unknown world where matter can assume strange states”.

University Careers Network

Preparation for your career should be one of the first things you think about as you start university. Whether you have a clear idea of where your future aspirations lie or want to consider the broad range of opportunities available once you have a Birmingham degree, our Careers Network can help you achieve your goal.

Our unique careers guidance service is tailored to your academic subject area, offering a specialised team (in each of the five academic colleges) who can give you expert advice. Our team source exclusive work experience opportunities to help you stand out amongst the competition, with mentoring, global internships and placements available to you. Once you have a career in your sights, one-to-one support with CVs and job applications will help give you the edge.

Key stats

Education
WUSCA ranking:
WUSCA student ranking
These are the 2024 rankings, based on ratings given by past and current students.
44/101
CUG Subject Ranking
CUG Subject Ranking
Source: Complete University Guide 2025
20th
CUG Ranking
CUG Ranking
Source: Complete University Guide 2025
13th
What students say
SR
Student Reviewer
06 Nov 19

Easy to transfer course, great sports facilities, materials offer lots of..Read more

Entry requirements

We require candidates to secure at least a 2.1 or equivalent in their undergraduate studies. We consider applicants with a background in Physics, Mathematics, Chemistry, Engineering or Material Sciences, but we also consider other subject areas.

Tuition fees

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This is the fee you pay if the University is in the same country that you live in (England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland)

Studentships are available to UK nationals and a limited number of international students. The CDT can also accept candidates in possession of their own funding (e.g. via a non-EU government scholarship) who are also welcome to apply for a place of study.

Students from EU

The amount you'll pay if you come to study here from somewhere in the EU.

Studentships are available to UK nationals and a limited number of international students. The CDT can also accept candidates in possession of their own funding (e.g. via a non-EU government scholarship) who are also welcome to apply for a place of study.

Students from International

The amount you'll pay if you come to study here from a country outside the EU.

Studentships are available to UK nationals and a limited number of international students. The CDT can also accept candidates in possession of their own funding (e.g. via a non-EU government scholarship) who are also welcome to apply for a place of study.

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Materials Science
Materials Science
SR
Student Reviewer
06 Nov 19
Materials Science and Engineering BEng (Hons)
Easy to transfer course, great sports facilities, materials offer lots of...
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Uni info

University of Birmingham
University of Birmingham , Birmingham

The University of Birmingham - part of the prestigious Russell Group of universities in the UK – has been helping to develop the...

Student rating
( 4.2) View reviews
CUG ranking
13th
University of Birmingham
Edgbaston, Birmingham Birmingham B15 2TT United Kingdom
Nearest train station: University   0.2 miles away
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