Applications

We are now open for applications to join the programme in October 2025. Please check the ‘PhD Project Vacancies‘ section for all projects that are currently recruiting.

How to apply

Step 1: Please apply via the online application form, selecting up to two projects. Applications are open until a successful candidate has been selected. We therefore encourage early application to ensure you are considered for your top choice project. The application form will ask you for relevant personal information, higher education background and a personal statement (up to 4000 characters), outlining why you are interested in undertaking a PhD within the CDT-GIF and how your experience is relevant to the project/s selected.

Step 2: Once you have completed your application form, please email your two page CV to cdtgreenindustrialfutures@hw.ac.uk. Your application will not be considered complete until we have received your CV.

Step 3: Applications will be sent to and reviewed by the lead supervisors at the home university every two weeks*. Where an applicant meets all the criteria they will be invited for interview. The CDT-GIF will inform applicants that have not been successful at this stage.

Step 4: Interviews will be held (typically online). The interview panels will consist of a combination of the lead supervisor, co-supervisor, CDT Co-Director (or CDT representative), independent academics and/or project partner representative.

Step 5: Successful candidates will be selected and asked to complete their home institutions formal application process.

*Applications will be sent for review on the following dates: 9th Jan, 21st Jan, 4th Feb, 18th Feb, 4th Mar, 18th Mar, 1st Apr. You should receive the outcome of your application approx. 3 weeks after this date. 

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

We warmly encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. Our programme values diversity as a cornerstone of innovation and collaboration, and we are committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels respected, supported, and empowered to thrive. The CDT-GIF are committed to ensuring flexibility throughout our programme to support student’s needs and personal circumstances, for example those with medical conditions, caring responsibilities and other considerations. For example, we are open to exploring part-time options if appropriate for the nature of the research.

Entry requirements

As a minimum we require candidates to have a First-class or 2:1 MEng or and MSc with merit (over 60%) in a relevant area i.e. Chemical Engineering, Process Engineering, Chemistry, Materials Science, Geoscience etc.  Candidates for socio-politico-economic research topics will also be considered with a relevant MA.  Applicants who have a First-class BSc/BEng (Hons) and can demonstrate significant relevant industry/research experience may also be considered.

Candidates should be aware of and meet the entry requirements for the university hosting the PhD studentship.

Who is eligible for funding?

UK students

Full funding (fees and stipend) is available for UK students.

International Students

We only have a limited number of spaces for international students. For international applicants, any offers made to international students will be conditional on fees being waived at the host university for the project and a successful visa application process.

Non-native English speakers must ensure they meet the English language requirements.

English Language Requirements

Non-native English speakers need to provide evidence of a SELT (Secure English Language Test) at CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference) Level B2 taken within two years of the date of application. 

There are several types of SELT, but IELTS (International English Language Testing System) is the most common. The minimum requirement is IELTS 6.5 or equivalent, no individual component can be less than 6.0 in a single sitting.  

A degree from an English speaking university can also be accepted.