The CDT is joint between Bath and Bristol Universities – where would I be based?

The first year of taught courses and lectures will be held for the first two terms in both Bath and Bristol. Once you choose a research project for your PhD (years 2-4) you will be based wherever your research project is (i.e. Bath or Bristol). Bath and Bristol are 10 miles apart and it’s a short commute via train. You will be reimbursed for CDT-CMP-related travel costs between Bath and Bristol.

I have a great idea for my research project. Can I skip the taught component and make a start straight away?

Year 1 of the programme will provide you with a good grounding in condensed matter physics, as well as providing you with transferable skills and physics techniques training, so you will find this time useful and interesting and it will prepare you for the research part of the programme from year 2 onwards. If you would like to take a PhD with no taught section you should apply for a non-CDT PhD in Physics.

What is a Research Placement?

This is a period during year 1 where you will have the opportunity to work with a research group in Bristol or Bath, or with an industry or facility partner, on a small project. This could lead onto your main research project in years 2-4.

Can I enrol for just the taught component to receive a different qualification?

Because the CDT-CMP programme is a 4 year PhD it’s not possible to apply for year 1 alone.

Which industrial and facility organisations are involved with the CDT-CMP?

We have many partners, please see our Partners page for a full list.