We invite applications to research degree programmes throughout the year. However, there are application deadlines for funded and self-funded PhDs starting in October, February and June. The next application deadline for studies commencing in October 2027 is 01 June 2027 for Overseas students and 25 August 2027 for Home students.
We welcome applications and research proposals in a variety of areas particularly those in fields that enhance the strength of our research themes.
We offer funded opportunities, which you can find out more about in the ‘Funding’ tab. We also welcome applications from self-funded students, who will all receive a research training and support grant for conferences and research-related spend.
We welcome applications from all applicants and, in particular, those underrepresented in STEM subjects and academia.
Eligibility
- Applicants should have a bachelors degree with 2:1 honours degree in an Engineering discipline or a closely related subject such as Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry or Computer Science and a good background in the area of intended research.
- A 2:2 degree may be considered only where applicants also offer a Masters degree with Merit or above.
- The available studentships include studentships for applicants who are UK residents as well as studentships for international applicants from outside the UK.
There are a number of funding opportunities available. Some cover both stipend (to cover living costs) and tuition fees, while others may cover fees only.
All our PhD students, including those who are self-funded, receive either a research and training support grant or a consumables budget per annum to support training, attending conferences and research-related costs.
All scholarships, bursaries or other awards are offered on a competitive basis. Some funding opportunities may have earlier deadlines, so please check carefully.
We offer PhDs on a wide range of different research themes in engineering, as well as funded studentships attached to specific funding grants and offered to home students. Potential applicants can identify and contact appropriate supervisors proposing projects they would be interested in pursuing.
Funded PhD Projects
The Department offers a range of funded PhD projects through a variety of funders, and research grants – set out in the next tab and searchable in King’s funding database.
There are also funded opportunities through our Centres for Doctoral Training:
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King’s Quantum
King’s Quantum Centre for Doctoral Training brings together quantum practitioners in the Faculty of Natural, Mathematical and Engineering Sciences (NMES) with our world-leading quantum adopters - researchers deploying quantum technology in healthcare, life sciences and beyond. Quantum technologies will contribute to furthering net zero, climate forecasting, drug discovery, autonomous vehicles, molecular integration, and the development of new materials. Find out more and apply here. Further details on available projects are coming soon.
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Engineering Biology for Biomedicine CDT
Engineering Biology for Biomedicine (EB4BM) is a transformative doctoral training programme bringing together King’s College London, the University of Leeds, and the National Physical Laboratory with 18 industry partners to train the next generation of engineering biologists. Find out more and apply.
Further funding opportunities:
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King's-China Scholarship Council
King's-China Scholarship Council PhD Scholarship programme (K-CSC) is open to students from China. Details of this programme can be found on our website.
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Self-funded Students
We welcome applications from students who can self-fund their PhD and they will be supported with a Research and Training Support Grant per annum to support training, attending conferences, and research-related costs.
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Teaching income
PhD students are encouraged to contribute to the department's teaching, for which payment will be made separately. Training and mentoring in teaching and learning in higher education is provided by the faculty.
We offer PhD projects under a range of different research themes in Engineering. Applicants can explore the various projects available and apply to the one that suits their interests. This list is not exclusive, and potential applicants can alternatively identify and contact appropriate potential supervisors to outline their academic background and research interests or to propose their own PhD project ideas that align with our research themes. Please see our Funding tab for further information.
Please note the application deadlines on each funded project advert, as these may vary.
To apply for a research degree in engineering, please find full instructions on the course page.