Apply for the programme
Deadlines for entry
Step 1: Pre-applications November to May
Step 2: Interviews November to May
Step 3: Full application direct to university:
Cambridge deadline - May each year
UCL deadline - June each year
About the programme: MRes plus PhD (1+3)
We offer a 4-year post-graduate training programme in Photonic and Electronic Systems which comprises a 1-year Master of Research (MRes) followed by a 3-year doctorate (PhD).
We welcome applications for the MRes only* and the 1+3 MRes+PhD track.
Students on the MRes-only track may opt to apply for the 3-year PhD during their MRes year.
We do not offer a stand alone PhD. Students must complete the MRes before progressing to PhD on this programme.
Visit the Programme page for more information about the programme.
*Funding restrictions apply to MRes only. International students should apply for the MRes only due to visa requirements.
Why apply to this programme?
- You will join a vibrant and diverse community of academics and graduate students.
- Prepare for a career in photonics though this challenging, multi-disciplinary PhD training programme.
- Gain expert knowledge in the area of photonic and electronic systems and the ability to seek optimal solutions to complex or multifaceted problems.
- Develop project management, teamwork, communication and leadership skills.
- Work with world-leading academics and industry partners in a rapidly expanding field of photonics research.
- Diverse study, research and training opportunities including: industry networking events, outreach, conferences, seminars and cross-departmental and cross-institutional research projects.
- Funded students: receive a generous stipend, tax free, plus UK/EU fees paid for up to four years (conditions apply).
Who we are looking for
- UK graduates who hold a first (1st) or upper-second class (good 2:1) Bachelor’s degree in a relevant science (e.g. physics, mathematics, natural sciences, materials science) and/or engineering (e.g. chemical, civil, electronic, electrical, mechanical).
- EU and international applicants holding equivalent qualifications from a recognised higher education institution and a proven record of academic excellence.
- Professionals with relevant qualifications or experience, including industry or applied research settings, who can demonstrate the capability and potential to undertake high‑level scientific or engineering research.
English language requirements
All students who are not nationals of a majority English speaking country, as defined by UK Visas and Immigration, must be able to provide recent evidence that their spoken and written command of the English language is adequate for the programme.
How to apply
Step 1: Pre-application
Pre-application closing date: May each year
We recommend all candidates complete the Pre-Application Screening Form before submitting a full application. This enables us to assess your suitability early in the recruitment process, before making a formal, full application. Candidates may express a preference for either university at this stage.
Pre-applications are processed on an ongoing basis between November and the closing date.
Applicants who make a full application without first submitting a pre-application may not be considered for the programme.
APPLY HERE: Pre-Application Form
Step 2: Interview
Shortlisted candidates will be invited to interview, either at pre-application or formal application stage. If successful at interview, your full application will then be processed by the Graduate Admissions Team at either UCL or University of Cambridge.
Step 3: Full formal application
Candidates who are successful at pre-application will be invited to make a full application, before or after interview, to either UCL or University of Cambridge.
Consideration is given to the candidate's preferred university but the decision on which institution issues the invitation is decided by the Centre Directors. The course is identical at both institutions.
An application fee may be charged for formal applications.
FORMAL APPLICATION:
UCL - formal application - all students (MRes only and MRes+PhD)
University of Cambridge - formal application MRes only
University of Cambridge - formal application MRes+PhD
The recruitment panel will advise shortlisted candidates which track to apply for: MRes only or MRes+PhD. At UCL all applicants apply for MRes only and are made an offer for either MRes only or MRes+PhD accordingly.
Step 4: formal offer & enrolment
Full applications from shortlisted candidates will go through the formal graduate admissions process at their university of choice. Note, full applications that did not go through the pre-application may take longer to process.
A formal offer decision and formal offer letter will be sent by the university. Candidates should accept their offer as soon as possible to secure their place on the course.
Students who have been awarded an EPSRC funded studentship will receive a funding offer letter once they have accepted their place on the course.
The enrolment process usually begins at the end of September.
The programme starts with an induction week in late September or early October, held in both London and Cambridge.
Funded studentships
UK residents / home students
We offer 4‑year, fully funded EPSRC studentships for applicants on the MRes + PhD pathway who meet UKRI residency requirements (i.e. students with home fee status).
Each EPSRC studentship includes:
- A tax‑free stipend
- Full tuition fees
- A Research Training Support Grant (RTSG) to cover essential project and training costs
A limited number of funded studentships are available each year, so students are advised to apply to the programme as early as possible.
Eligible candidates are automatically considered for EPSRC studentships and no additional application is required.
If not successful in gaining an EPSRC funded studentship you will need to seek alternative funding, scholarship or be able to support yourself financially.
International applicants
We are currently unable to offer EPSRC funded studentships to international students.
International applicants should secure alternative funding, a scholarship or be able to support themselves financially before accepting a place on this programme.
Check the university websites for information relating to alternative funding sources and scholarships: