Programme
Our Approach
The NanoDTC offers a distinctive cohort-based PhD programme that combines scientific training with a strong emphasis on collaboration and peer-to-peer learning, critical for interdisciplinary research. We take a holistic approach to researcher development, incorporating aspects of sustainability and continual personal growth throughout the student’s learning journey on our programme.
Course Structure
Initial Training
The initial six months combine training with PhD project selection. This phase helps students transition from learners to researchers, gain advanced nanoscience skills through applied learning, and explore Cambridge’s research ecosystem to inform their PhD choice. An overview of the modules is provided below.
Applied Nanoscience
Module Overview
Applied Nanoscience is an introductory, hands-on module giving rapid exposure to core experimental skills and the broad nanoscience research landscape.
Designed to bring students from diverse backgrounds up to speed quickly on core Nanoscience concepts. Experimental practicals build progressively, developing samples and data over multiple sessions to reflect real experimental workflows, not isolated concepts.
Early cross-departmental work helps students build connections across Cambridge’s research ecosystem and shape their PhD topics
System Integration for Experimentalists
Module Overview
This module gives students introductory level training in basic electronics and hardware prototyping, commonly required in experimental research projects. Topics are taught through hands-on workshops in Lent term, which include:
- Using microcontrollers (Arduino)
- Analog/digital sensors and outputs
- Basic feedback systems
- Introduction to op-amps
- Arduino–Python interfacing
- Debugging embedded systems
Mini & Midi research projects
Mini Project
The Mini project is 8 weeks in length (Oct – Dec) and run alongside other modules that students take during that time. This project gives students an exposure to day-to-day research environments and also helps them explore new research areas that they have not worked in previously.
Midi Project
The Midi project is 10 weeks long (Jan – Mar) and helps students test the ground with their PhD topic, supervisor, and research group before committing to doing their PhD in that area. Most students tend to continue on from their Midi to PhD in the same group.
Sustainable Innovation and Entrepreneurship
Module Overview
Sustainability and Innovation are central to the NanoDTC programme, beginning with the hands-on Nurturing and Managing Innovation in Science (NMIS) module, led by Prof. Karishma Jain. Students work in teams to develop real-world innovation ideas using a Challenge-Based Learning approach. The module includes:
- Evaluating markets, mapping competition, and pitching impactful solutions
- Talks from academic and industry speakers with experience in research-led innovation
- A mentored group project to develop a business case around an emerging idea
Beyond NMIS, students continue developing innovation skills throughout their PhD via residential workshops on sustainable innovation, opportunities such as the NanoFutures Leadership Award and industry engagement through seminars, events and networking.
FAQs
How is the initial 6-month training period assessed?
Coursework, group projects, and reports for Mini and Midi research projects are assessed formatively, to provide constructive feedback and support students’ development. As part of the progression to the full-time PhD, students also prepare a written PhD proposal and present it to a panel of NanoDTC academics, receiving feedback to refine their research direction. There are no exams in the NanoDTC programme.
How much time do I have to decide my PhD topic?
Students select their Midi projects, precursor to their PhD topics, towards the end of Michaelmas Term (December). Midway through the Midi project, students have the opportunity to confirm whether they wish to continue with the same project as their full PhD (Feb).
What if I don't know what topic I want to do for my PhD?
No problem! It is absolutely normal and ok to join with very broad interests. Throughout the initial 6 months, the NanoDTC team will help you shape your interests into a suitable PhD direction.
How are Mini and Midi project chosen?
Mini projects are chosen by us, for you, so that you have opportunity to try research outside of your previous research experiences. Midi (and PhD) projects are chosen by you. You are encouraged to go speak to NanoDTC academics during the initial 6-month period to explore your interests towards this.
Who teaches the modules during the initial training period?
The programme strongly advocates for peer to peer learning opportunities, in which students have the opportunity to teach as part of their own professional development. As such, a large component of teaching is led by senior PhD students and postdoctoral researchers affiliated with the NanoDTC around their subject expertise.
Does the programme offer learning opportunities beyond the initial 6 months?
Yes! Even beyond the initial training period, NanoDTC students will be able to participate in a variety of programme-wide activities such as industry visits, seminars and the bi-annual Autumn School. Ongoing training around specific research and transferrable skills will also be arranged on the fly, depending on the needs of students.
I have no experience in innovation and technology commercialisaton. Is this programme for me?
Yes! While prior exposure can be helpful, it is not required. Our training programme is specifically designed to support students with no previous experience in these areas.
What would my day as a NanoDTC student look like?
In the first term, you’ll take part in core training modules – Applied Nanoscience, Sustainable Innovation, and other cohort-based activities such as journal clubs, alongside your Mini research project. In the second term, the focus shifts toward your Midi project, giving you time to engage more deeply with research that may lead into your PhD. While the Midi project takes priority, some training activities continue in parallel, including journal clubs, Systems Integration, and data science sessions within Applied Nanoscience, but with a lighter time commitment.