Materials are at the heart of the modern world and, as the largest single materials focus in Europe, we are at the forefront of developing the science behind them.
Wide-ranging research
At the School, we encompass a unique and exceptional breadth of research and training in materials – from polymers, textiles, metals and composites, to nuclear science, aerospace technology and cutting-edge fashion and design management – and these activities are built on our global reputation for excellence and award-winning research.
Industry support
We are supported by leading research councils and organisations worldwide, and many fund specialist centres in the School to focus on ground-breaking research topics.
Current specialist research centres include the Materials Performance Centre, the Northwest Composites Centre, and the William Lee Innovation Centre.
World-leaders
Our academics are world-leaders in their field of research, and many of our research areas are consistently awarded the highest possible rating of 5* in the UK Research and Assessment Exercise. Our substantial research income supports more than 150 research students and 60 postdoctoral research assistants – in turn generating exciting and innovative research opportunities spanning the breadth of materials.
The future
In parallel with the University plans to become a leading centre of research, we will be further strengthening our position as a diverse scientific and cultural community, engaged in cutting-edge research, and working side-by-side with leading companies to transform tomorrow’s world.
Your options
As a postgraduate student, you have the opportunities to study at all postgraduate levels; from Certificate, Diploma and Masters through to PhD. Development of our programmes has been driven by industry, ensuring a sought-after qualification with transferable skills to prepare you for your chosen career.
Our alumni enjoy challenging careers in industry and academia, and many are invited to work alongside the School in its strategic development, ensuring that we retain our international standing as a centre of excellence and innovation in the materials sector.
World-class facilities
To underpin the research and teaching activities, we have established state-of-the-art laboratories, which allow comprehensive characterisation and development of materials. These facilities range from synthetic/textile fibre chemistry to materials processing and materials testing.
To complement our teaching resources, there is a comprehensive range of electrochemical, electronoptical imaging and surface and bulk analytical facilities and techniques.