PhD/MPhil Civil Engineering

Conduct original research under the supervision of leading experts in one of our dedicated research groups. Access world-leading facilities for heavy structures and geotechnical centrifuge testing.

Overview

The School of Mathematics, Computer Science and Engineering offers research degrees in Civil Engineering, Geotechnical Engineering, Hydraulic Engineering and Structural Engineering.

Whichever route you choose, you will conduct in-depth research alongside world-leading experts in Civil Engineering within one of four research groups:

Civil Engineering Structures focuses on developing integrated solutions for sustainable and resilient structures under adverse operational and extreme loading conditions.

Fluid-Structure Interaction addresses the challenges associated with marine engineering, offshore wind energy, high buildings and biomechanics.

Multi-scale Geotechnical Engineering links micro-mechanics to the macro-response.

Temporary Works and Construction Method Engineering addresses industry challenges associated with construction processes.

Access world-leading facilities including extensive structural laboratories, our recently refurbished geotechnical centrifuge, as well as unique, world-leading computer codes, such as QALE-FEM and qaleFOAM.

Structure

Doctoral research students are initially registered for an MPhil and transfer to PhD at the end of the first year. This is following a satisfactory submission and examination of a report and transfer presentation.

The groups use experimental and numerical techniques to investigate the following:

• Performance-based design and assessment of structures
• Inerter-based vibration control for civil engineering structures
• Smart structures adaptable to adverse environmental loadings and conditions
• Structural health monitoring and smart sensing of large-scale civil engineering structures

A good honours degree (normally no less than an upper second class honours degree from a UK University or an equivalent qualification) in an appropriate subject. Some subjects also require an appropriate Masters qualification.