Application of Plastic Electronic Materials

The Master of Science in Application of Plastic Electronic Materials at the University of Oxford is a comprehensive and innovative program designed to equip students with the advanced knowledge and practical skills necessary to excel in the rapidly evolving field of electronic materials. This programme focuses on the development, characterization, and application of plastic electronic materials, which are increasingly important in the creation of flexible, lightweight, and cost-effective electronic devices. Students will explore the fundamental principles of polymer chemistry, materials science, and electronic device physics, enabling them to understand how to design and optimize materials for various electronic applications.

Throughout the course, students will engage in interdisciplinary learning, combining theoretical coursework with hands-on experimental projects and laboratory work. The curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including conductive polymers, organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs), organic photovoltaics, flexible displays, and wearable electronics. Emphasis is placed on sustainable and environmentally friendly manufacturing processes, ensuring graduates are prepared to contribute to the green technology revolution. The program also offers opportunities for collaboration with industry partners, fostering innovation and providing real-world experience in commercial and research settings.

Graduates of this program will be well-positioned for careers in research and development, materials engineering, and product design within the electronics, telecommunications, automotive, and renewable energy sectors. They will possess a strong foundation in both the scientific principles underpinning plastic electronic materials and the technological methods used in their fabrication and testing. With access to Oxford’s world-class facilities and expert faculty, students will develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and project management skills essential for leadership roles in academia and industry alike. Whether pursuing further academic research or entering the commercial market, graduates will be prepared to contribute to the advancement of next-generation electronic technologies that leverage plastic electronic materials for innovative and sustainable solutions.

The programme was established to train PhD students in the area of plastic electronics. The field is a growth area, with the emerging industries in organic photovoltaics and lighting having enormous potential in the context of environmentally friendly low-carbon electricity and energy efficiency. The subject is inherently interdisciplinary, encompassing basic physics, optoelectronics, physical and materials chemistry, device engineering and modelling, as well as the design, synthesis and processing of molecular electronic materials.

To train PhD students successfully across these fields, the CDT academic cohort comprises over 30 academics, from the Departments of Physics, Chemistry, Materials and Chemical Engineering at Imperial College London, the University of Oxford and Queen Mary University of London.

Students accepted into the CDT program will register for their first year with Imperial College London, who will award an MRes degree upon successful completion of a course that includes both formally taught elements and a nine-month research project.

For acceptance into the course based on an Oxford-led project, the student will spend this nine-month project with the indicated supervisors at the University of Oxford.

Subject to successful completion of the MRes, the student will then be enrolled for a DPhil (PhD) program at the University of Oxford for a further three years, during which they will carry out the research project chosen at admissions point. Successful completion of this part of the CDT program will result in the award of a DPhil (PhD) degree in either physics, materials or engineering science from the University of Oxford.

The CDT website will list projects available for the coming academic year by the preceding January. Please note that entry into the University of Oxford's graduate programme for DPhil studies for years two to four of the programme requires the choice of a research project led by an Oxford supervisor at the point of admission into the CDT programme.

Decisions on admissions into the programme are made by a CDT team involving academics from both Imperial College and the University of Oxford.

To apply for the Plastic Electronics CDT programme (MRes+PhD; 4 years), you need to make an application for "Postgraduate Masters - to be Followed by Research" in the Physics Department. Please use the course code F3U8B. Prospective students are encouraged to identify project(s) that they are interested in from the current list of available projects, and to contact the primary supervisor directly before submitting an application.

• To apply for a postgraduate research programme (e.g. a PhD) please complete our postgraduate research application form. Applications are only accepted online.
• You are strongly advised to contact a potential supervisor before making a formal application. You may wish to provide the supervisor with a copy of your Curriculum Vitae and indicate what your proposed topic of study is, the potential start date and how you propose to fund the project.
• You can submit one application form only. Each application form will allow you to choose up to two programme to apply to; these will be processed according to your stated preference.
• You will be asked to register the name and contact details of two academic referees. 
• It will greatly enhance the processing of your application if you are able to submit scanned copies of your educational certificates and transcripts at the same time as your application.
• If you are completing a Staff Research application, you will need to ensure you submit a scanned copy of your contract with Imperial at the same time as your application. 

Supporting Statement

• No more than 1 page long (11-12 point text size)
• At the beginning, make it clear why you are interested in the Plastic Electronics Course, and what your relevant experience is
• Clearly state what research areas/projects you are most interested in
• Clearly provide a summary of relevant previous research project(s) that you have undertaken

CV (Curriculum Vitae)

• Note that the word "resumé" is not used in the UK
• no more than 2 pages long
• do not include: date of birth/age, marital status, gender, height, weight, nationality... 
• do include: academic qualifications and degree classification/grade (final and predicted); information about previous research project(s) and supervisors; information about any time spent in industry; experience with relevant analytical/synthetic techniques, programming, etc.

Interviews

Interviews are expected to run between February and May; if you are selected for interview you will be contacted by email. Each MRes and CDT studentship is aligned with a particular project. If you have not been selected for a particular project your application has been unsuccessful. Around 8 projects are available each year for fully-funded CDT studentships; other projects are available for MRes or self-funded CDT students. Find out more about funding.

Both the MRes and the CDT courses start at the beginning of October each year; it is not possible to start at any other time.

The University of Oxford offers a range of financing options to support students enrolled in the Application of Plastic Electronic Materials programme. Prospective students are encouraged to explore various sources of funding to assess their financial needs and plan accordingly. The university provides several scholarships, bursaries, and grants specifically designed for students pursuing advanced studies in materials science and engineering. These financial aids may be awarded based on academic merit, research potential, or financial need, and applicants are advised to review the eligibility criteria carefully and submit all required documentation by specified deadlines. Beyond university-specific funding, students can also consider external grants, national scholarships, and research council funding opportunities that align with their research interests in electronic materials and innovative plastics. International students may have access to additional funding options, including government sponsorships or private foundations offering support for international researchers. The university's financial aid office offers comprehensive advice on applications, eligibility assessment, and planning for tuition fees, living expenses, and research costs. Tuition fees vary depending on the student’s status as a UK, EU, or international applicant, and students are recommended to consult the official university website or contact admissions officers for precise figures and updated information. It is also advisable to budget carefully for associated costs such as laboratory materials, conference travel, and accommodation. Oxford University promotes transparency in its funding processes and provides detailed guidance to ensure students can make informed decisions about their financial arrangements. Additionally, some students may choose to secure part-time work, either within the university or in the local Oxford community, to supplement their income during their studies. Loan options are also available through government schemes or private lenders for eligible students. Overall, while the programme offers excellent research and educational opportunities, prospective students should engage early with the university’s funding resources to optimize their financial planning and ensure they can focus fully on their academic journey in applying plastic electronic materials.

The Program in Application of Plastic Electronic Materials at the University of Oxford offers a comprehensive exploration of the science and technology behind plastic electronic materials, focusing on their development, properties, and applications in modern electronics. This programme is designed for students interested in the intersection of chemistry, materials science, and electronic engineering, providing a rigorous curriculum that combines theoretical principles with practical laboratory work. Students will study the chemistry and physics of organic and polymeric materials used in flexible, lightweight, and cost-effective electronic devices. The course covers various topics, including organic semiconductors, conductive polymers, device fabrication, and the integration of plastic electronic materials into real-world applications such as displays, solar cells, sensors, and wearable technology.

The programme emphasizes innovation and research, encouraging students to participate in cutting-edge projects and collaborate with leading scientists in the field. It aims to equip students with essential skills for careers in research institutions, industry, or further academic pursuits. The interdisciplinary nature of the course fosters a deep understanding of materials design, electronic properties, and processing techniques. Students also gain experience with state-of-the-art characterization tools and fabrication methods essential in the development of next-generation electronic components.

The programme is taught through a combination of lectures, seminars, tutorials, and research projects, providing a balanced approach to theoretical learning and practical application. The faculty comprises international experts recognized for their contributions to electronics and materials science. Students can benefit from the university’s extensive network of industry partners and research facilities, enhancing their learning and employment prospects upon graduation.

Admission typically requires a strong background in chemistry, physics, or engineering, along with relevant academic qualifications. The programme duration is typically one academic year for full-time students, with options for part-time study. Graduates of the programme are well-positioned to contribute to the rapidly evolving fields of flexible electronics, sustainable energy, and innovative electronic devices, shaping future technological advancements.