DPhil in Zero-Carbon Energy Research

The DPhil in Zero-Carbon Energy Research is a research-based doctoral programme at the University of Oxford coordinated by the ZERO Institute. It provides interdisciplinary training in zero-carbon energy generation, conversion, storage, distribution and use, combining expertise across science, engineering and social sciences. The programme includes structured staged training, cohort activities and supervised original research over an expected duration of 3–4 years.

Structured doctoral training, cohort activities and seminars; interdisciplinary research supervision; development of research, communication, leadership and project-management skills; experience conducting original high-impact research on technological, environmental and policy dimensions of the energy transition.

Applicants should hold or be expected to achieve a first-class or strong upper second-class undergraduate degree (or equivalent). Eligible academic backgrounds include engineering-related fields (architecture, physics, chemistry, materials science, mathematics, computer science, earth or environmental sciences) and relevant social science degrees; a previous master's degree is not required. Applicants whose first language is not English must meet Oxford's higher-level English language requirement and must provide three references.

Apply via the University of Oxford graduate admissions online application. Submit personal and course information, proposed research field and title, up to four potential supervisors, official transcripts (with translations if necessary), a 1,000–1,500 word research proposal, and register three referees (at least two references normally required). Pay the £20 application fee unless eligible for a fee waiver. Submit before 12:00 noon UK time on 2 December 2026.