Application information
Points to consider in your Fusion CDT application:
You do not need an in depth knowledge of fusion when you apply. If you are accepted onto our programme, you will benefit from a series of training courses, which will prepare you for an exciting research project at the forefront of the field.
Potential Projects are shown on our website. Please indicate on your application form your preference for which project/s you are interested in. We will use your project preferences as a guide, but you may also be considered for other projects.
Don’t forget you could also subscribe to our mailing list at the bottom of this page if you would like reminders about important dates, news and events.
Frequently asked questions
Q. I’ve had no experience or knowledge of fusion during my UG degree, does this put me at a disadvantage?
A. Don’t let this intimidate you! The Fusion CDT programme is a 4 year PhD programme which gives us plenty of time in the first 6 months to teach you all you will need to know to fulfil a successful research project.
Find out more about the taught courses and other training that compliment your research project.
Q. I’m really interested in the Fusion CDT programme but how do I find out more about it?
A. Each year we link with Culham Centre for Fusion Energy and other leading universities to offer an Open Day for students interested in a PhD or Masters degree in fusion energy. The Open Day features:
- Opportunities to meet our world leading academics and to talk to our current PhD students.
- Talks on magnetic fusion, inertial fusion, materials science and engineering.
- A chance to tour JET and MAST-U experimental facilities.
The Open Day usually takes place in November/December and more details will appear on our website and on CCFE’s website here: https://culhamphd.uk/
Q. Does the Fusion CDT offer part-time PhD positions?
A. The Fusion CDT welcomes part-time applications. These will be considered on a case-by-case basis. In addition to the usual considerations including funding and suitability for doctoral study, assessment of part-time applications will include, typically in discussion with the candidate following interview, whether the requirements of the project are compatible with the applicant’s non-PhD commitments.
Offers for part-time study can only be made when the registering university offers part-time doctoral study and when it is known that two consecutive years of the taught portion of the programme can be delivered.
If you are interested in part-time study please contact the relevant project supervisor to discuss. Please also contact the Fusion CDT programme director (Roddy Vann – roddy.vann@york.ac.uk) to discuss the taught programme.
Q. Can Overseas students apply for the Fusion CDT?
A. We welcome applications from suitably qualified overseas applicants, and can award a small number of funded studentships each year to overseas students. These studentships are only able to pay tuition fees at the home rate. We recommend speaking with a representative of the university you are applying to in order to explore if they may offer scholarships / partial fee waivers in order to pay the remaining fee balance. If you have your own funding source and meet our academic requirements we can also consider you for a place on the Fusion CDT.
Please also see the website of the university you are applying to for further advice and information for international applicants.
Q. Can a Fusion CDT student be self-funded?
A. Yes, if you can arrange funding from a sponsor or other funding agency, we will consider you for the Fusion CDT, provided you meet our academic standards.