We welcome applicants from across the physical sciences including Physics, Chemistry, Materials, and Engineering for our PhD programme. For entry to Oct 2024 we are making some updates to the programme. These changes are expected to be finalised around Nov 2023. Until then, you can take a look at an indicative course structure on this website.

Applications for entry to this new programme for Oct 2024 will be accepted after our programme changes are confirmed around November. However, as funding deadlines for the University are in early December, you can either apply for the MRes+PhD in Nanoscience and Nanotechnology and we will transfer you application to the new programme. Alternatively, you can submit an application for a PhD in Physics, and  email nanodtc.admissions@nanodtc.cam.ac.uk indicating you are interested in the NanoDTC programme.

Additional information on deadlines and funding is found elsewhere on this website

Applicants will be shortlisted based on their written applications, taking into account qualifications, aspirations and experience. Final selection is done via an interview process which focusses on candidates’ independent thinking and approach in the physical sciences, in addition to their knowledge, aspirations, and experience.

Please note that we will no longer offer an MRes+PhD format for Oct 2024. The changes we are making will aim to keep the same cohort based approach and breadth of training and PhD selection process, but the changes will allow for more extended research on the main PhD project.

For questions relating to the formal application procedure and other general admissions queries, please contact the Physics Graduate Admissions team: admissions@phy.cam.ac.uk

For questions not answered on our website, please contact nanodtc.admissions@nanodtc.cam.ac.uk.

Eligibility requirements

Applicants should expect to have a first class degree and at least 4 years of training (e.g. a 4 year degree or a 3 year degree plus 1 year of relevant work experience) in a relevant subject before they start the programme in Oct 2024, along with some research experience as part of their degree courses or otherwise.

International applicants should refer to this link to find out the equivalent of a first class degree in their country/institution before applying.

Steps for Applying

1. Complete the online application for the MRes + PhD in Nanoscience and Nanotechnology upload your CV and transcript. 

Alternatively, you can apply for a PhD in Physics and email nanodtc.admissions@nanodtc.cam.ac.uk indicating your interest in the NanoDTC PhD programme. You do not need to provide a resaerch proposal with you application.

2. Ensure that your references are submitted by your referees by the funding deadlines. You can check and update details of your referees via the self-service admissions system.

2024 Admissions Deadline Countdown​

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The first and second round deadlines for Oct 2022 entry are now past. Applications for Oct 2023 will open in September.