PhD in Modelling of Heterogeneous Systems (2023 Entry)
Find out more about our Modelling of Heterogeneous Systems PhD.
HetSys is an EPSRC-supported Centre for Doctoral Training. It recruits enthusiastic students from across the physical sciences who enjoy using their mathematical skills and thinking flexibly to solve complex problems.
By developing these skills, HetSys will train you to challenge current state-of-the-art in computational modelling of heterogeneous, ‘real world’ systems across a range of research themes such as nanoscale devices, new catalysts, superalloys, smart fluids, laser-plasma interactions etc.
Course overview
The HetSys training programme addresses three key training needs:
- Span disciplinary barriers. The most challenging real-world heterogeneous systems are intrinsically multidisciplinary, requiring integration of a diverse range of modelling methods.
- Incorporate uncertainty in modelling. Training in uncertainty quantification will enable students not only to perform simulations, but also to quantitatively assess their reliability.
- Promote robust Research Software Engineering (RSE). Training in sustainable software development will enhance software usability and extend its lifetime.
CDT training will run throughout the four-year PhD programme with all aspects designed to meet the three key training needs above, and to develop transferable skills. You will be recruited directly onto a project and will have a supervisor from the start of the course, as well as a second supervisor in a related area and a cohort mentor for academic and pastoral advice. In projects with industry links there will often also be an industry co-supervisor.
Teaching and learning
HetSys' training programme is designed to enable you to become a high-quality computational scientist who is comfortable working in interdisciplinary environments, has excellent communication skills, and is well prepared for a wide range of future careers in areas where there is demonstrable need.
During the first 18 months of the programme you will study four core modules (Multiscale Modelling Methods and Applications I and II, Research Computing/Software Carpentry and Predictive Modelling and Uncertainty Quantification). You will also take at least two optional modules, participate in a Group Software Development Project supported by academics and RSEs, and carry out an independent research project in the area of the PhD project assessed through a written report and viva 12 months into the programme.
The individual project also leads to a peer-to-peer activity in the second year (also part of the Group Software Development Project). These activities will contribute to the formal award of a postgraduate diploma (120 credits), which must be successfully completed 18 months into the programme. You will also have the opportunity to participate in the formal transferable skills course run by the University, which leads to a PG Certificate in Transferable Skills after three years.
In Years Two to Four the majority of your time will be spent conducting PhD research. There will be ample opportunities for peer-to-peer learning and knowledge exchange through cohort-wide activities.
General entry requirements
Minimum requirements
2:i honours degree at BSc or an integrated Master’s degree (e.g. MPhys, MChem, MSci, MEng etc.) in a physical sciences, mathematics or engineering discipline.
English language requirements
You can find out more about our English language requirementsLink opens in a new window. This course requires the following:
- Band A
- Overall IELTS (Academic) score of 6.5 and component scores.
International qualifications
We welcome applications from students with other internationally recognised qualifications.
For more information, please visit the international entry requirements pageLink opens in a new window.
Additional requirements
There are no additional entry requirements for this course.
Our research
Examples of areas of current research within the remit of the HetSys CDT include the following themes:
- Quantum: Electrons, atoms and molecules for catalysis, medicines and devices.
- Atomistic: Materials structure, phases and defects for properties and applications.
- Continuum: New methods for fluids, plasma, porous media and composites for technological solutions.
Please see our research themesLink opens in a new window for further details and our projects pageLink opens in a new window for specific projects currently being advertised.
Find a supervisor
HetSys offers a range of research projects. A research proposal is not required. Instead, you should nominate one to three projects that you are interested in, in order of preference.
Learn more about our groups and projects.
You can also see our general University guidance about finding a supervisor.
Tuition fees
Tuition fees are payable for each year of your course at the start of the academic year, or at the start of your course, if later. Academic fees cover the cost of tuition, examinations and registration and some student amenities.
Taught course fees Research course fees
Fee Status Guidance
We carry out an initial fee status assessment based on the information you provide in your application. Students will be classified as Home or Overseas fee status. Your fee status determines tuition fees, and what financial support and scholarships may be available. If you receive an offer, your fee status will be clearly stated alongside the tuition fee information.
Do you need your fee classification to be reviewed?
If you believe that your fee status has been classified incorrectly, you can complete a fee status assessment questionnaire. Please follow the instructions in your offer information and provide the documents needed to reassess your status.
Find out more about how universities assess fee status
Additional course costs
As well as tuition fees and living expenses, some courses may require you to cover the cost of field trips or costs associated with travel abroad.
For departmental specific costs, please see the Modules tab on the course web page for the list of core and optional core modules with hyperlinks to our Module Catalogue (please visit the Department’s website if the Module Catalogue hyperlinks are not provided).
Associated costs can be found on the Study tab for each module listed in the Module Catalogue (please note most of the module content applies to 2022/23 year of study). Information about module department specific costs should be considered in conjunction with the more general costs below:
- Core text books
- Printer credits
- Dissertation binding
- Robe hire for your degree ceremony
Scholarships and bursaries
Scholarships and financial support
Find out about the different funding routes available, including; postgraduate loans, scholarships, fee awards and academic department bursaries.
HetSys Funding Opportunities
Learn about the various funding opportunities that are available for our Modelling of Heterogeneous Systems PhD.
Living costs
Find out more about the cost of living as a postgraduate student at the University of Warwick.
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