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Department of Chemistry
Abstract network molecules

Postgraduate opportunitiesTwo students smile as they undertake an experiment at a lab bench.

Current Chemistry opportunities

Postgraduate projects undertaken in the Chemistry Department here in Durham cover all of the traditional areas of chemistry and other contemporary, often interdisciplinary topics. Ph.D. projects are available each year that span all aspects of the Department's research activities.

The Department offers Ph.D. positions via the EPSRC Centres for Doctoral Training (CDTs) and for research projects hosted by individual research staff.  

Current funded postgraduate studentships are listed on FindAPhD.

Additional funding routes are listed below.

How to apply

To apply for a PhD (F1A001) or MSc (F1A009) please click the link below to access our University's application portal.

Before you apply it is essential that you obtain supervisory support for your project.  A list of our academic staff with their contact details can be accessed here.

Please note that if you are a student looking to apply for a scholarship for which you need an offer letter, please allow at least two weeks from submission of application for the release of the offer letter.

Note that the applications to ReNU CDTs are handled by the respective lead institutions.  Please follow the instructions on the respective website.

Academic qualifications: We ask for a minimum of 2:1 BSc, 2:2 MChem (or equivalent) in a related subject. 

English Language requirements: For students whose first language is not English or whose first degree was awarded by a University not delivering the courses in English, postgraduate students must demonstrate proficiency in English Language.  For postgraduate study and research in the Department of Chemistry the requirement is here. 

 

Apply now

Click the link below to apply to our Department as a postgraduate researcher.

A student performs a science experiment

We offer two research degrees, which can be completed on a full or part-time basis:

  • PhD

The majority of those beginning postgraduate study in Durham work toward a PhD, which normally requires between 36 and 48 months of full-time study, depending on the programme. The degree is awarded based on the presentation and oral examination of a thesis.

  • MSc

This research programme usually takes 12 months to complete. The degree is awarded based on the preparation and examination of a thesis and an oral examination (where necessary), together with successful completion of the Department's postgraduate training programme.

 

List of individually funded postgraduate studentships:

Current funded postgraduate studentships are listed on FindAPhD and FindaMasters.

 

Additional funding routes:

  • Durham Doctoral Studentships (DDS)

Four students undertake an experiment in our Chemistry lab.

Durham University offers a small number of doctoral study awards to new applicants within the science faculty every year. Applications are welcomed from overseas students as well as those eligible for home fees.  However, applicants must be in receipt of an unconditional offer (including English Language) by the application deadline (normally early in the year).

Applicants should apply through the usual Durham University online application system, stating on their application that they wish to be considered for a DDS studentship (in the funding award box).

For further information on this award, please email chemistry.postgrad-admissions@durham.ac.uk .

  • China Scholarships Council (CSC)

A vial with a blue liquid and a smiley face.

The China Scholarship Council (CSC) scholarships are available thanks to a partnership with the China Scholarships Council. The scholarships are open to applicants from Mainland China wishing to study for a PhD at Durham. Details of the eligibility criteria along with information specific to applicants applying for this joint scheme can be found here.

 

  • Dr Anthony Palmer Scholarship for Masters by Research

     

    Dr Palmer sits on a bench with trees behind him.

    The Dr Anthony J Palmer Scholarship award is available annually and has been established from a generous legacy gift bequeathed to Durham University by Dr Anthony J Palmer, alumnus and friend of the University. The funding covers the Tuition Fees and research expenses that are allocated to the supervisor to support the project.  Further information about this award, including how to apply can be found here.

    For further information on this award, please email chemistry.postgrad-admissions@durham.ac.uk .