How to apply

• All applicants to the CDT should apply to The University of Manchester, regardless of whether your research project will be based in Manchester or Cambridge.
• We do not specify a formal deadline for applying to the CDT, but we encourage you to apply as early as possible. We expect all places to be filled by the end of March 2026.
• Please ensure that you read the information below before applying and follow the application instructions.

We welcome exceptional applicants from across the physical sciences, including physics, chemistry, materials, and engineering. You should have, or expect to achieve, a First or High 2:1 UK undergraduate degree comprising at least 4 years of training in the relevant subject, such as a four year integrated Master's degree or a BSc followed by an MSc. Evidence of some research experience is highly desirable (this includes extended undergraduate projects).

You must be enthusiastic and looking for a challenging, interdisciplinary research training environment.

To make your application you should have the following:

• A personal (supporting) statement: a statement indicating your preferred University for the research project (Manchester or Cambridge) and the two research missions you would like to join, in order of priority. Also, describe briefly (no more than 300 words) why you chose these research areas.
• Certificates and transcripts: Certificates and final transcripts of any completed university-level qualifications and interim transcripts for qualifications in progress. If you have not completed your degree, please provide interim transcripts and forward your final transcripts and certificate(s) when they are available.
• CV: Summarising your academic record and highlighting experience that demonstrates your potential to conduct research.
• Referees: Names and contact details of two referees who we can get in contact with and will support your application. These should typically be academics related to your previous degree, however if you have industry experience one referee can be from this source.

All applications must be made online via the University's online application form. The online form is generic and is used for all postgraduate degrees. The instructions below should make the application process as simple as possible.

Where the form asks for a potential supervisor and proposed research project, list the two research missions to which you are applying (same as in your personal statement).

On the University website's application page, select the apply online button and follow the instructions to create an account.

When prompted during the application process, select the following information:

• Level of study: Postgraduate by Research
• Entry year: Select the appropriate academic year
• Academic programme: Search for the keyword ‘2D Materials’ and then select the PhD programme
• Research details:
• Specific project – select ‘No’
• Proposed area of research – type in the two research missions to which you are applying, in order of priority, or state the title of a specific advertised project
• Identified Supervisor – select ‘No’.
• Funding sources: UK applicants – select ‘No’.

You will be prompted to upload documentation required to support your application, see the list of required documents here.

Please email our CDT when you have submitted an application. This will help us to find your documents in the application system.

Apply now

Next steps

1. Your application will be assessed by the CDT academic leadership team.
2. Applicants will be shortlisted based on their written applications, considering qualifications, aspirations and experience.
3. If your application is shortlisted, you will be invited to an in-person interview.
4. View our postgraduate research website for advice on preparing for a postgraduate research interview.
5. The interview will focus on your knowledge, aspirations and experience. It is also an opportunity for you to meet the team and learn more about the training offered by the CDT.

Any questions?

Please email our CDT Admissions team.