Study with usPhD & postgraduate research degrees
Tackle local, global & societal challenges
We're looking for aspiring researchers to join our team and work side-by-side with world-renowned academics to help tackle the big issues facing society.
The University of Strathclyde is a socially progressive, internationally leading technological University. Our leading-edge research and close links with business, industry and public sector organisations make us the University of choice for 1,800 doctoral researchers from over 80 countries.
Join Strathclyde as a doctoral researcher and help solve issues of global impact!
Let's talk!
Our team are here to help every step of the way!
How to apply
There are two main routes to undertaking a research project at Strathclyde - either by applying for an existing project or pursuing your own specific areas of interest.
Current opportunities
Search our current projects. We've got a range of exciting research projects looking for people just like you!
Projects don't always have funding attached to them. If this is the case, find out ways to fund your research.
If there are no suitable projects, don't worry, you can still apply and submit your own research proposal.
Submit your own research proposal
You can apply at any time – all you have to do is pick your course and submit your application.
Studying a PhD: your questions answered
Elita, one of our PhD students, explains why she chose to study a PhD and shares info on funding opportunities and other useful advice.
When I spoke to my supervisors at the beginning of my application, they were pretty clear, that they wanted to support me, not just with the admission process, but also the funding and application processes.
Work alongside world-class academics
Imagine being part of a dynamic community of brilliant minds, working alongside world-renowned academics at the forefront of cutting-edge research.
At Strathclyde, we don't just offer a doctoral degree - we offer an opportunity to make a real impact on the world. Our strong links with business, industry, and the public sector mean that our doctoral researchers are tackling some of the most pressing local, societal, and global challenges of our time.
Our state-of-the-art facilities and outstanding research environment offer doctoral researchers the resources and support they need to reach their full potential.
We're tackling big societal challenges
I’ve always wanted to do something meaningful that will make a difference and this research gives me the opportunity to do just that.
Civil & Environmental Engineering (PhD)
Saving lives at sea with data from space
A pioneering project is harnessing satellite data to help lifeboats safely navigate the shifting waters of the Solway Firth on rescue missions.
Seek-and-destroy nanomedicines for prostate cancer treatment
Strathclyde researcher Dr Christine Dufes is currently leading research on new 'seek-and-destroy- nanomedicines, with exciting results in laboratory settings.
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University of the Year 2012 & 2019Times Higher Education Awards
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Almost 90% of research rated 'world leading' or 'internationally excellent'Times Higher Education’s analysis of REF2021
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11th in the UK & 3rd in ScotlandTimes Higher Education Impact Rankings 2025, for top universities pursuing the UN Sustainable Development Goals
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Glasgow’s the 4th best city in the world!Time Out Index 2022Types of research degrees
What's the right research degree for you?
There are two types of research degrees:
- Doctoral degrees such as PhDs or Professional Doctorates
- Masters research degrees including MRes or MPhil
Our guide explores the different types of research degrees to help you decide which is the best fit for you.
Our Doctorates
For employers committed to offering meaningful and diverse learning opportunities, supporting a PhD through the PhD@Work route can be a powerful addition to their learning and development strategy.
Dr Arthur Krebbers
PhD@Work Programme GraduateStrathclyde Doctoral SchoolStrathclyde Doctoral School
Strathclyde Doctoral School provides a vibrant and comprehensive student-centred research and training environment in order to grow and support current and future research talent.
The School encompasses our four Faculties and is committed to enriching the student experience, intensifying research outputs and opportunities, and ensuring training is at the highest level. As a postgraduate researcher you'll automatically become a member of the Strathclyde Doctoral School.
Our faculties
Our faculties & departments
Engineering
Humanities & Social Sciences
Science