Queen’s is a member of the Russell Group of the UK’s 24 leading research-intensive universities
Find a PhD at Queen's University
The PhD route is life-changing. Choosing a topic you are fascinated by, and pushing the boundaries of research to new heights and emerging with expertise in your field that is second to none. In the Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences at Queen's University, we currently have over 300 live PhD projects across a range of specialisms.
Many come with a robust funding model, including paid fees, a generous (tax-free) stipend and further funding opportunities for research-related travel. Have a particular passion project in mind? Get in touch! While many of our projects have attached funding, some additional funding is available for the most exciting research proposals.
A Culture of Research Excellence
Pursuing a PhD at Queen's University Belfast promises a personalized and enriching research environment. The university's commitment to fostering a strong research culture, coupled with a focus on individual growth, ensures that working towards a PhD at Queen's equips you with the skills and knowledge for a successful and impactful future in your chosen field.
At Queen's, we believe that immersing yourself in postgraduate research is more than an academic pursuit; it is a strategic investment in your future, providing the tools and opportunities for both personal and professional success. With access to modern facilities and guidance from experienced mentors, the PhD journey becomes a personalized and enriching experience.
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Sian Clifford | Global Student Recruitment Officer -EPS
Get In Touch
Got any questions about studying for a PhD at Queen's University? I'm here to help!
Over 99% of Queen’s research environment was assessed as world-leading or internationally excellent
LIFE AS A RESEARCHER
Your journey as a postgraduate researcher is a personal one. Your project is unique to you, although it may build on specific research strengths within the university. Think of it as one of the most unique jobs in the world. Every day you'll push the boundaries of your topic further and contribute to the world-leading research that helps Queen's Univeristy maintain it's reputation for excellence.
You won't be alone though, you'll have a PhD supervisor who will play an integral part in your research, helping to shape the scope and direction of your project. You'll also be part of the wider research community in your School, with plenty of other PhD students and researchers, it's a vibrant and exciting world to be part of.
Find the perfect project
Take a look at the projects listed below to look at our current research topics. Alternatively, if you have your own idea for a project please get in touch with us to chat about whether this fits with the research strengths of our Schools.
Reach out to find out more
Found the perfect project but want a little more information? Get in touch with Sian Clifford now to ask any questions you have about the requirements or how to create a strong application. If you have questions about the research project specifically you can also reach out to the supervisor to talk.
Apply for your PhD
The important bit! Once you're ready to submit your application you can head to the Direct Applications Portal (DAP). It's important to keep the project listing open as you will be required to fill in specific information relating to it.
LIVE PROJECTS
88% of research submitted by Queen’s has been assessed as world-leading or internationally excellent
46 LIVE PROJECTS
We have a range of opportunities available across the School on topics aligned with our core research strengths.
- Energy Storage
- Antibiotic Synthesis
- Synthetic Organic Chemistry
- Cancer Drug Discovery
- Catalysis and Sustainable Methods in Chemistry
Electroceramics
99 LIVE PROJECTS
We have a diverse range of PhD projects available in the following areas:
- Cyber Security and AI
- 6G and Future Networks
- Robotics
- Sensor-based Systems
- Power Electronics
- Computing Systems
- PLUS many more...
47 LIVE PROJECTS
We have a diverse range of PhD projects available in the following areas:
- Mathematical and statistical analysis
- High-Energy Laser application
- Quantum Optics
- Machine learning
- Plus many more...
12 LIVE PROJECTS
We have a diverse range of PhD projects available in the following areas:
- Sustainable Energy, Storage & Power in Transport
- Engineering Design & Digitalisation for a Sustainable Future
- Materials & Processes for Circular Products & Health
44 PROJECTS LIVE
We have a diverse range of PhD projects available in the following areas:
- Places, Archaeologies, Societies, Time
- Environmental Governance
- Water and Energy Resources (WERG)
- Intelligent and Sustainable Infrastructure
- Plus many more!
18 LIVE PROJECTS
We have a diverse range of PhD projects available:
- Development and Cognition
- Health, Welfare and Clinical Psychology
- Perception and Action
- Social Psychology.
LIFE AT QUEEN'S UNIVERSITY
Why Choose Queen's
Ranked in the top 170 in the world for graduate prospects
(QS Graduate Employability Rankings 2022)World-class university
‘One of the world’s most beautiful universities’ (Huffington Post), Queen’s is the 9th oldest university in the UK, established in 1845 with over 170 years of teaching excellence.
The UK's Best Value Student City
Belfast has the lowest cost of living in the UK (Mercer Cost of Living City Ranking 2023)
Employment potential
Queen's offers opportunities for work placements, industry-led programmes and ground breaking research projects. 94.4% of Queen’s graduates are in employment or further study six months after graduation
State-of-the-art facilities
Be taught by world-leading researchers and experts in their field in state-of-the-art facilities. 19 Queen’s subjects in the top 200 in the world (QS World Rankings by subject 2024)