Centre for Doctoral Training in Photonic and Electronic Systems

The Centre

University College London (UCL) and the University of Cambridge and have combined their expertise to establish a Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT) in Photonic and Electronic Systems (PES).

We train postgraduate students using innovative teaching and learning techniques at two leading higher education institutions. 

We work with over thirty companies and research organisations worldwide who support student projects and contribute to our doctoral training and research programme.

The programme

We offer an advanced  four-year programme in Photonic and Electronic Systems which combines a one year Master of Research (MRes) followed by a three year Doctorate (PhD).

The programme is designed to provide students on the MRes with a solid grounding in photonics and the advanced research skills required to enable high quality PhD research.

How to apply

The Centre operates a three-stage application process.

Stage 1: Pre-application

• Prospective students should submit a Pre-Application form. 
• Pre-applications are reviewed on an ongoing basis from November to May.

• We recommend submitting a pre-application as early as possible. The application portals may close early if all places are filled.

Note: candidates who do not submit a pre-application may not be considered for the programme.

Stage 2: Full application

• Candidates who are successful at pre-application will be invited to make a full application, before or after interview, to either UCL or University of Cambridge. The recruitment panel will advise shortlisted candidates which track to apply for: MRes only or MRes+PhD.
• Full applications are processed by the respective university.
• Full applications close: 16 May 2025

Stage 3: Interview

• Shortlisted candidates will be invited to interview. This may be at either pre-application or formal application stage.
• Interviews will take place monthly from November to May.
• Full applications from successful interviewees will be processed by the admisisons team at their chosen university.

Application closing dates

Who should apply

We welcome applications from:

• UK graduates with a good first degree (1st or good 2:1) in a relevant science and/or engineering. 
• EU and overseas students with equivalent qualifications. 
• Applicants with relevant qualifications or industry experience who can demonstrate scientific or engineering research capability.

EPSRC funded studentships

UK/Home applicants

4-year fully funded EPSRC studentships (paying a stipend and fees) are available for UK/Home students who meet residency requirements. Home students who wish to enrol on the MRes only course will not be eligible for this studentship. See the APPLY page for details.

EU and International applicants

EU and International applicants who are invited to interview are automatically considered for 4-year EPSRC funded studentships. We receive a large number of applicants for a very limited number of funded studentships on this programme, and competition is high. Therefore, we encourage EU and international students to also secure alternative funding, a scholarship or be self-funded before accepting a place on this programme.

Other scholarships, independent of the CDT, are available to EU and international students. Deadlines and eligibility criteria differ depending on the funding body. Check the university websites for further details:

Funding for Overseas students - UCL

Funding for Overseas students - University of Cambridge

Equality and diversity

Both UCL and University of Cambridge are committed to promoting equality, diversity and inclusion in the recruitment, selection, education and assessment of students. We welcome applicants regardless of age, disability, gender identity, marriage or civil partnership status, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex or sexual orientation.

Diversity policy - UCL

Diversity policy - University of Cambridge