Our unique training programme is spread over four years, and comprises six months of taught courses taken by the whole cohort in the first half of the first year, followed by a substantive research project (which typically lasts forty-two months).

It provides a broad training across inorganic synthesis at different length scales (molecular, nano-scale and extended solids) together with in-depth research-based training in one area. Taught courses feature integrated industry/academic components for a holistic understanding of fundamental principles and the delivery of a chemical product. Involvement of ten diverse industrial partners allows for training that is relevant to a range of different business sectors and sizes.

Training modules involve lectures, problem classes, tutorials, site visits and advanced practical components. All modules involve some aspect of formal assessment, including written reports, problem solving, and group and individual presentations. Key aspects of the taught course include:

• Induction exercises and events in week one;

• Three introductory modules covering molecular, nano-scale and extended materials chemistry, designed to bring all members of the cohort up to the same level of mastery;

• Eight core integrated technical modules, each featuring both academic and industry-led components (Solid state synthesis: fundamentals to devices; Reactive molecular compounds: gramme vs. tonne scale; Nano-scale synthesis; Catalysts: homo- and heterogeneous; Surface-supported chemistry; From conception to product – the business of synthesis; Scale-up: different scales for different sectors; Cross-scale characterization techniques);

• Four advanced option modules (from a wider pool including Supramolecular/mechano-chemistry; Organometallics; MOF chemistry; Synthesis for imaging; Polymer Synthesis; Advanced characterization techniques; Modelling/theory; Data processing/analysis);

• Two professional skills development modules taken from a wide pool of courses offered by the University’s Mathematics, Physics and Life Sciences Division;

• A compulsory module on responsible research and innovation (RRI);

• Four further option modules and additional professional skills/RRI modules in years 2-4;

• An advanced laboratory course featuring extended investigations covering molecular, nano-scale and extended materials chemistry, together with a week-long project looking at scale up and chemical engineering based at Siemens’ Harwell green ammonia generator;

• An annual summer school encompassing outreach training and research presentations.