Studying with us

Approximately twelve new graduate students join the OxICFM CDT programme each year. We strive to assemble a bright and diverse cohort of researchers who are fully integrated into our extensive network of academic and industrial partners. We offer state-of-the-art teaching and research facilities aimed at training students in the art-and-craft of synthetic inorganic chemistry. Our students are uniquely equipped to tackle future challenges in the manufacturing sector across all length scales of chemistry: ranging from molecules, through nano-materials, all the way to extended solids.

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The OxICFM CDT is committed to promoting equality, increasing diversity and encouraging inclusion among students and staff. We actively foster an inclusive culture in which all individuals are valued and respected, in order to realise their full potential. Equality, Diversion and Inclusion (ED&I) policies and practices are fully embedded at all levels – from leadership/staffing to student recruitment, retention, progression and well-being.

Applications from female and other under-represented group candidates are encouraged. The University has recently launched a number of pioneering initiatives to improve access to graduate study, including scholarships for black students or fee waivers for applicants from low income backgrounds. You can learn all about these initiatives here.

As a mature student, I was nervous about embarking on a DPhil, but being a part of the OxICFM CDT has been such an amazing experience. I especially love being part of a cohort – it feels like I belong to a family and my fellow student colleagues are incredibly supportive and encouraging.
Kelly Britton (2021 cohort)
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  • Equality and Diversity

    The OxICFM CDT is a diverse programme committed to providing an open and inclusive environment, where the rights and dignity of all individuals are respected. We work alongside the Department of Chemistry to promote equality and foster a diverse environment where everyone is able to fully contribute and excel.

    We aim to recruit the very best graduate students regardless of gender, race, age, marriage/civil partnership status, pregnancy/maternity status, disability, sexual orientation, or creed. Our strategy is to accept the very best students, and to encourage and support applications from underrepresented groups.

  • Mental Health

    As a graduate student, anxiety and stress can be a routine part of life, but if persistent can lead to serious health problems. Maintaining a healthy work/life balance is very important to us at OxICFM and we are committed to ensuring that our students have the support they need.

    Mental health problems can affect any of us at any time. While a common condition, it can be hard to talk about these problems. If you are experiencing a period of mental ill-health, there are a number of options available to you for support and help. For more information follow the link below.

  • Accessibility

    We are committed to providing accessible space for researchers with disabilities. The new state-of-the-art teaching laboratories are fully accessible and possess DDA compliant height-adjustable benching and fume-hoods. Common teaching areas, group study facilities and break-out rooms located are also fully accessible for students with disabilities. Research projects accessible to students with limited mobility are available annually.

  • Career support

    The University of Oxford Careers Service Office is available to provide career advice to CDT students. In addition, OxICFM runs a Careers Day at our annual summer school conference with participation from industrial CDT partners and external speakers. One of the main objectives of the OxICFM CDT is to provide a ‘talent pipeline’ from Oxford to our industrial partners, assisting our students in finding careers that best suit their diverse skill-sets.

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