Nanomaterials

The MSc in Nanomaterials at Imperial College London offers students an in-depth understanding of the fundamental principles and cutting-edge developments in the field of nanomaterials science and engineering. This comprehensive programme is designed to equip students with the knowledge and practical skills necessary to innovate and excel in research, development, and industrial applications related to nanotechnology. Throughout the course, students explore the unique properties and behaviors of materials at the nanoscale, delving into their synthesis, characterization, and performance. The curriculum combines theoretical lectures with practical laboratory work, enabling students to gain hands-on experience using state-of-the-art techniques such as electron microscopy, spectroscopy, and atomic force microscopy. Emphasis is also placed on the design and fabrication of nanostructured materials with targeted functionalities for applications in electronics, energy storage, medicine, and environmental science. The programme fosters a multidisciplinary approach, integrating principles from chemistry, physics, materials science, and engineering to address real-world challenges. Students have the opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research projects, working alongside leading experts in the field at Imperial College. The programme prepares graduates for careers in academia, research institutions, and industries such as pharmaceuticals, electronics, and sustainable energy. With access to advanced laboratories and a vibrant academic community, students develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and innovative skills essential for the rapidly evolving landscape of nanomaterials. Upon successful completion, graduates will be well-equipped to contribute to technological advancements and develop new nanomaterial-based solutions that address global societal needs.

Taught courses introduce nanoscience from material science, physics, chemical and biological perspectives. The year-long research project and presentation at an international conference introduces students to state-of-the-art nanoscience. The course is associated with the London Centre for Nanotechnology, a joint venture between Imperial College London and UCL, allowing a wider choice of collaborative opportunities.

In the first term you will be allocated a research project from your top three choices. Under the supervision of your project team you start researching and writing a project synopsis/ research plan, to be submitted in November.

You also undertake a programme of taught material in five core areas:

• modelling of nanomaterials
• characterisation of nanomaterials
• supramolecular chemistry of nanomaterials
• optical, electronic and magnetic properties of nanomaterials
• nanotubes and nanorods

You begin term two with an assessment on the core lecture courses undertaken in term one. You also begin your research project in the laboratory.

Continuing with your programme of taught material, you will also attend a lab course and assessment on nanomaterials characterisation, plus ten two-hour lectures on topics such as microfluids and molecular and cellular nanobiotechnology.

You also attend Journal Club, which is an assessed transferable skills course. It aims to develop presentation skills, whilst encouraging scientific debate, and providing the opportunity to broaden scientific knowledge.

At each Journal Club meeting you will work in a group and make a presentation about a high impact paper. This will be followed by a chaired discussion/debate about the paper.

You will be assessed on your ability to organise the presentation in a logical manner, the use of clear PowerPoint slides, the clarity of the presentation and its scientific content.

In term three, you will continue to work on your research project, to be written up as a dissertation. You will also present your research findings at a one day MRes Conference held at the beginning of September, which counts towards your overall assessment.

Academic requirement: 2:1 degree or higher in a relevant subject (particularly in subjects such as Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics, Materials, Biochemistry and Engineering) from a UK institution or an equivalent overseas qualification.

English language requirement: IELTS 6.5 (writing and speaking 6).

There are opportunities to gain scholarships in a competitive fashion. These will provide funding towards tuition fees and/or living expenses and will be granted on the basis of academic merit and excellence of the applicant.

Tuition fees (2015–2016):

• Home/EU Full-time — £10,450
• Overseas Full-time — £29,300