Why pursue research in Civil Engineering
Reimagine civil infrastructure
As a postgraduate researcher in Civil Engineering, you’ll contribute to advancing the design, construction and resilience of our built environment – from bridges and buildings to railways and tunnels. Your work will help shape infrastructure that is safer, more sustainable, and better prepared for the pressures of a changing world.
You’ll investigate how structures perform under extreme conditions, including earthquakes, explosions and fire, using advanced test facilities such as the Henry Royce Institute, bp-ICAM, and national laboratories within UKCRIC.
Collaborating across disciplines, you’ll work with leading researchers to improve long-term structural durability, enhance dynamic performance, and develop practical, cost-effective design solutions with real-world impact.
Delve into groundbreaking research
Design the future of our built environment
At Manchester, you’ll explore a wide range of civil engineering research areas, including:
- Structural resilience and materials
- Dynamics, vibration and earthquake engineering
- Hydraulics and fluid–structure interaction
- Geotechnics and soil mechanics
- Impact and blast engineering.
Tackle real-world challenges in infrastructure, safety and sustainability. From resilient building design to testing materials under extreme conditions, our research shapes safer cities and a more sustainable built environment.
You’ll work with advanced facilities including our concrete, hydraulics, heavy structures and geotechnics labs, alongside national-scale impact and explosion testing sites.
Hear from our PhD researchers
How Amirhossein navigated PhD life and found balance
PhD researcher Amirhossein shares advice on funding, choosing a supervisor, managing your time, building connections – and why it’s okay to slow down before you begin.
From West Bengal to Manchester: Amiya’s climate science PhD
Amiya Sur shares his experience of a joint PhD in civil engineering with Manchester and IISc Bangalore – combining climate science, AI and global teamwork to address water challenges.
What Muir wishes he knew before starting a research degree
Muir, a PhD researcher at Manchester’s Tyndall Centre, shares advice on getting started, from referencing tips to building strong writing habits that support your research journey.
Ready to start your PhD journey?
Explore how to apply
Whether you’re taking the first step or already have a clear direction, we’re here to guide you through the application process. Browse available projects, contact potential supervisors, and discover how to take the next step towards your future at Manchester.
Shape your research journey
Browse available projects
Explore impactful research projects that can shape your future. Filter by discipline, funding status, or keyword to find the perfect match and take the next step in your research journey.
Find a supervisor
Your supervisor is vital to your research journey, providing guidance and support. Find the right supervisor to shape your PhD and help you reach your goals at Manchester.
Discover funding options
Explore scholarships, studentships, and fully funded PhD programmes with expert guidance to help you secure the right funding for your research journey.
Explore life as a researcher
Meet our researchers
Hear from current researchers about postgraduate research life – from lab work and city living to managing costs. Discover their stories and imagine your journey at Manchester.
Contact us
Got questions?
Our expert teams are here to support you at every stage of your research journey. Whether you're starting out or ready to apply, contact your department or Faculty team below.
