Advanced Technology Institute

The Advanced Technology Institute programme of the University of Surrey is one of the University’s world-leading research centres. As a PhD student, you’ll work alongside other ATI researchers in the areas of quantum information, nanotechnology, energy, microwave engineering and advanced materials. 

At the University of Surrey It’s likely you’ll also have the opportunity to collaborate with scientists around the world, which will enhance your international outlook. As part of the larger Doctoral College community, you’ll receive the training you need to become a fully-fledged researcher and drive the next generation of technology and innovation.

Career opportunities

Your research on this Advanced Technology Institute programmewill sit in one of the ATI’s four research groups: Nanoelectronics, Photonics, Ion Beams, and Theory and Computation. These are united by cross-cutting themes, such as science and technology on the nanoscale, technological applications of quantum science and engineering, and conversion of energy.Your proposal for a new PhD topic will be examined with a holistic view of the field and its technical content, the excellence in the proposed research, its potential to provide new and fundamental insight to technical problems, and the ability of the ATI to provide the best environment to facilitate the research.You’ll be registered for a maximum four-year period of full-time study. After 12 months, you’ll write a confirmation report, which will be assessed by independent examiners. A detailed evaluation of progress and future research plans will be made every six months to ensure that progress towards completion of the PhD remains satisfactory.A PhD normally lasts for three-and-a-half years. During this time, you’ll be supported by two academics, who you’ll meet with on a regular basis. Postdoctoral researchers in the group also help with project steering, especially when the PhD work is part of a multinational or industry-focused programme.

Research themes:

• Photonics

• Quantum science and technology

• Nanomaterials

• Nanoscience and nanotechnology

• Advanced energy materials

• Flexible and printed electronics

• Sensors and smart environments

• Ion beams

• RF and microwave devices

• Micro- and nanofabrication

• Microscopy and surface science

• Modelling and simulation

• Semiconductor devices

• Renewable energy systems.