Centre for Doctoral Training in Energy

Durham University's EPSRC funded Multidisciplinary Centre for Doctoral Training in Energy was launched in October 2009. The current cohort includes students studying in eight different departments from both the science and social science faculties. As part of the multidisciplinary CDT in Energy students have the opportunity to undertake world class research within a specialist department at Durham University, but also to gain a broader knowledge of energy issues from engineering to social aspects. This is provided through a series of internal and external lectures from leading energy researchers, university lecture courses, international conferences, energy site visits, social events, student research seminars and workshops.

Studentships so far have been funded by CE Electric, NERC, EPSRC, Chevron, Shell, Infoterra, Scottish Power, Jordan Energy and Mining, Technical Fibres Ltd., Thomas Swan, Infineum, ESRC, ONE and Durham University, and each student receives additional funding from EPSRC to extend their period of research. These companies and research councils, and many more believe that energy researchers with the ability to understand energy in its broadest context are crucial to their continued success in the energy sector. Energy is a multidisciplinary topic and in order to remain competitive within this sector, the UK will require a critical mass of versatile individuals trained in a wide range of skills.  The reliance of society on energy means that this sector can offer graduates an exciting, rewarding and secure career choice with many opportunities for diversification. It is clear that on completion of their doctoral studies Durham CDT researchers will have a competitive edge when considering the next step in their career.