Apply for the programme

Application process

We are now accepting applications for entry to the programme in September 2025.

Deadlines for 2025 entry:
Step 1: Pre-applications (November to May)
Step 2: Full application direct to university:
              Cambridge deadline - November 2024 to May 2025
              UCL deadline - November 2024 to May 2025
Step 3: Interview (November to May)        

    

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 overseas students with qualifications of an equivalent standard from a recognised higher education institution.
  • Applicants with other relevant qualifications or industry experience who can show evidence of a scientific and engineering research capability.

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: 02 May 2025

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: 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

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.

Full application closing dates for 2025 entry: 
Cambridge - 16 May 2025
UCL - 16 May 2025

Step 3: 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 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.

Funding

EPSRC funded studentships are available for candidates who meet the eligibility criteria. Funding will cover UK/Home fees and provide a stipend (which varies depending on location). EPSRC funding is for four years (MRes+PhD) and subject to successful completion of the MRes programme, identifying suitable PhD supervision and upgrade from MPhil to PhD.

Students who wish to complete the 1-year MRes only will not be eligible for a 4-year EPSRC funded studentship.

A limited number of funded studentships are available each year, so students are advised to apply to the programme as early as possible. If not successful in gaining an EPSRC funded studentship you will need to seek alternative funding, scholarship or be self-funded.

Eligibility for EPSRC funding:

  • UK home student - To be classed as a home student, candidates must be a UK National (meeting residency requirements), or have settled status, or have pre-settled status (meeting residency requirements), or have indefinite leave to remain. Home students are eligible for funding of home fees and stipend. Candidates who do not meet this criteria would be classed as an International student.
  • International applicants - applicants from EU, EEA and overseas are eligible to be considered for EPSRC funding (home fees and stipend). Note: this does not cover the difference between home and overseas fee rates.

For further information on eligibility please see the EPSRC website.