Inorganic Chemistry for Future Manufacturing

The Centre for Doctoral Training in Inorganic Chemistry for Future Manufacturing (OxICFM) aims to train the next generation of doctoral scientists in the synthesis of inorganic materials relevant to the future prosperity of the manufacturing sector. The course has been designed in collaboration with ten industrial partners representing a range of business sizes and technological expertise, in order to provide a holistic understanding of all aspects of the chemical manufacturing process.

OxICFM uses a cohort model (12+ students per year), allied to training incorporating faculty-, industry- and peer-led components, to deliver scientists with (i) a broad spectrum training across the interface between inorganic synthesis and manufacturing, and (ii) in-depth expertise in one specific stream (molecular, nano-scale or extended materials).

Students are trained in a single cohort initially (in the first six months) through a series of taught courses, covering a wide range of topics in synthetic inorganic chemistry. Details of the modules are provided on the CDT's website. From the second half of year one, students will focus primarily on their substantive research project, which they will have chosen prior to the start of their course. During all four years of the programme students also receive a tailored programme designed to broaden their research and professional skills.

All modules during the taught course component involve some aspect of formal assessment, including written reports, problem solving, and group and individual presentations. Throughout the project component of the course, a termly report on the student’s progress is submitted by both the student and their supervisor. At an appropriate stage (normally after six terms) students must pass Transfer of Status, to ensure they have the potential to gain a doctorate, in line with the University's graduate student progression guidelines. This assessment will be made on the basis of overall performance in the taught course component, together with a project report and oral examination.

At the beginning of their fourth year students must pass Confirmation of Status, to ensure that they are on track to complete the thesis within a reasonable time. The degree is examined by thesis and oral examination by two examiners, one of whom is normally from Oxford and one from elsewhere.

The allocation of graduate supervision for this course is the responsibility of the Department of Chemistry and it is not always possible to accommodate the preferences of incoming graduate students to work with a particular member of staff. A supervisor may also be found outside the Department of Chemistry.

This is a new programme and there are no alumni yet. The department runs a number of activities in close cooperation with the Careers Service, including an annual careers conference, CV workshops and visits from many prospective employers. The programme also has strong engagement with industry, with regular visits and several interactions with industrial partners.

Changes to this course and your supervision

The University will seek to deliver this course in accordance with the description set out in this course page. However, there may be situations in which it is desirable or necessary for the University to make changes in course provision, either before or after registration. In certain circumstances, for example due to visa difficulties or because the health needs of students cannot be met, it may be necessary to make adjustments to course requirements for international study.

Where possible your academic supervisor will not change for the duration of your course. However, it may be necessary to assign a new academic supervisor during the course of study or before registration for reasons which might include sabbatical leave, parental leave or change in employment.

For further information, please see our page on changes to courses.

Other courses you may wish to consider

If you're thinking about applying for this course, you may also wish to consider the courses listed below. These courses may have been suggested due to their similarity with this course, or because they are offered by the same department or faculty.

All graduate courses offered by the Department of Chemistry

Chemical Biology DPhil

Chemical Biology MSc by Research

Chemistry in Cells: New Technologies to Probe Complex Biology and Medicine DPhil

Inorganic Chemistry DPhil

Inorganic Chemistry MSc by Research

Inorganic Chemistry for Future Manufacturing ESPRC CDT

Organic Chemistry DPhil

Organic Chemistry MSc by Research

Physical and Theoretical Chemistry DPhil

Physical and Theoretical Chemistry MSc by Research

Synthesis for Biology and Medicine CDT

Theoretical and Computational Chemistry MSc

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Entry requirements