PhD, MSc Molecular-Scale Engineering

Year 2

(Award available for year: Master of Science)

Learning outcomes

On completion of the second year of the programme, where students can exit with an MSc award, students should have shown evidence of being able to:
- demonstrate in-depth specialist knowledge and understanding of techniques relevant to molecular-scale engineering, informed by knowledge at the forefront of the discipline;
- demonstrate and use a high level of analytical problem solving skills and competencies;
- use their knowledge and understanding of the underpinning engineering and scientific principles within the context of molecular-scale technology;
- use their analytical skills to solve non-routine molecular-scale engineering problems;
- demonstrate an appreciation of the context in which molecular-scale engineering is practised and managed, particularly an awareness of the management of quality and health & safety systems and environmental and sustainability issues;
- apply their skills in molecular-scale engineering to real world science and engineering problems;
- undertake project work independently and be able to plan, research, execute and analyse the results from an appropriate programme of work.


Year 4

Learning outcomes
On completion of the Integrated PhD with MSc, students should have shown evidence of being able to:
- discover, interpret and communicate new knowledge through original research in the field of molecular-scale engineering and produce work of publishable quality which satisfies peer review;
- independently and proactively formulate ideas and theories and to design, develop, implement and execute plans by which to evaluate these;
- demonstrate systematic and extensive knowledge of a range of topics in the area of molecular-scale engineering;
- critically and creatively evaluate published research in a range of learned society journals and other literature;
- exhibit generic and subject specific skills and techniques necessary for effective working in an interdisciplinary research-intensive environment, in liaison with academic and industrial partners, ensuring widening participation through engagement in public events, enterprise and knowledge transfer;
- demonstrate a portfolio of transferable professional skills through the use of Personal Development Plans including, for example, communication and presentation skills, ethics, networking and team development, commercial awareness; to take a proactive and self-reflective role in working and to develop professional relationships with others where appropriate;
- undertake an individual research project in the area of molecular-scale engineering;
- demonstrate the skills necessary for a career as a researcher and/or for employment in a senior and leading capacity in a relevant area of industry;
- evaluate their own achievement and that of others;
- exhibit self-direction and effective decision making in complex and unpredictable situations;
- demonstrate independent learning and the ability to work in a way which ensures continuing professional development.