Centre for Doctoral Training in Photonic and Electronic Systems

The Centre

University College London (UCL) and the University of Cambridge 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: 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.

Stage 3: 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.

Application closing dates

Who should apply

We invite applications from talented and motivated individuals who are ready to excel in a vibrant, research‑intensive training environment. You should consider applying if you are:

• UK graduate with a good first degree (1st or good 2:1) in a relevant science and/or engineering. 
• EU and international applicants holding equivalent qualifications and a proven record of academic excellence. 
• Professionals with relevant qualifications or experience, including industry or applied research settings, who can demonstrate the capability and potential to undertake high‑level scientific or engineering research.

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

EPSRC funded studentships

Funding - UK/Home applicants

We offer 4‑year, fully funded EPSRC studentships for applicants on the MRes + PhD pathway who meet UKRI residency requirements. Each EPSRC studentship includes:

• A tax‑free stipend
• Full tuition fees
• A Research Training Support Grant (RTSG) to cover essential project and training costs

Enhanced stipends for the 2026-27 cohort

The Centre for Doctoral Training in Photonic and Electronic Systems (PES CDT) has been selected to join the TechExpert pilot scheme - part of the UK Government’s skills programme to open career pathways in the digital and technologies sector.

As part of this pilot, our EPSRC‑funded studentships starting in October 2026 will provide a generously enhanced annual stipend of £31,000, which is £10,000 above the standard UKRI rate, for students eligible for home fee status.

This uplift reflects the national priority to develop deep technical expertise in strategically important technology areas such as: advanced connectivity and communications, quantum technologies, semiconductor engineering and other frontier tech sectors.

Students funded through the TechExpert pilot will also take part in up to 10 days of additional enrichment activities in each year of the student’s funded period. This may include:

• Engagement with tech industry partners.
• Outreach and public engagement activities.
• Networking and professional development events with the TechFirst community.
• Widening participation activities to encourage and support the next generation.

Eligibility and Restrictions

• EPSRC TechExpert studentships are only available to students enrolling on the full MRes + PhD programme. Applicants for the stand alone MRes are not eligible.
• For the 2026–27 intake, EPSRC TechExpert funding is only available to students with home fee status.
• Due to changes in UK Government funding policy, international students are not eligible for EPSRC or TechExpert studentships beginning in October 2026.

For more information on the TechExpert pilot scheme, visit the APPLY page.

Funding - International/overseas applicants

We are unable to offer EPSRC-funded studentships for international students starting in October 2026. This is due to a change in the UK government TechExpert funding provision for a single cohort starting in 2026/27,  supporting only students with home fee status.

International applicants are advised to secure alternative funding, a scholarship or be able to self-fund before accepting a place on this programme.

Check the university websites for information relating to alternative funding sources and scholarships:

Funding for Overseas students - UCL

Funding for Overseas students - University of Cambridge

^{The Centre for Doctoral Training in Connected Electronic and Photonic Systems (CEPS CDT) is funded by EPSRC grant ref: EP/S022139/1. 
The Centre for Doctoral Training in Photonic and Electronic Systems (PES CDT) is funded by EPSRC grant ref: EP/Y034864/1.}