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A UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent in one of the following: 

• physics 
• mathematics
• engineering

or a closely related discipline.

For UK students, tuition fees and a stipend at the UKRI rate plus a £2,000 ORC enhancement, tax-free, per year for up to 3.5 years (for 2024/25 it will make £21,237 in total, rising annually). 

EU and Horizon Europe students are eligible for scholarships. 

The China Scholarship Council (CSC) students are eligible for fee waivers. 

Funding for other international applicants is very limited and highly competitive. Overseas students who have secured or are seeking external funding are welcome to apply. 

Apply now

You need to:

• choose programme type (Research), Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences
• choose “PhD ORC”
• insert the name of the supervisor Professor Gilberto Brambilla in section 2 of the application form

Applications should include:

• your CV (resumé)
• 2 reference letters
• degree transcripts or certificates to date

Applications are accepted throughout the year. The start date will typically be late September, but other dates are possible.

Read more about the application process. 

The Optoelectronics Research Centre is committed to promoting equality, diversity, and inclusivity, as demonstrated by the school’s Athena Swan award. We welcome all applicants regardless of their gender, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation or age. We take personal circumstances into account, and will give full consideration to applicants seeking to study part time. The campus has onsite childcare facilities. 

Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences

If you have a general question, email our doctoral college ([email protected]).

Project leader

If you wish to discuss any details of the project informally, please email Professor Gilberto Brambilla: [email protected].