Postgraduate Doctoral Degrees

The School of Chemistry at University College Cork has a strong research tradition and is an excellent place to pursue an advanced-level degree in chemistry. These are exciting times in the school, with expanded academic staff, new and upgraded facilities, and increased research funding.

Postgraduate Research Opportunities

Students who excel in their undergraduate studies and enjoy their experience of research during their undergraduate training may want to continue their education by pursuing a PhD degree. Doctoral research allows students to probe a scientific problem at a very deep level and make an original contribution to advancing knowledge in a particular field.

• During the doctorate, which typically takes three to four years, students will be exposed to and use a wide range of scientific techniques that they learned about during their undergraduate studies.
• Students will gain practice in analyzing their data and gain valuable experience of writing a PhD thesis and publishing their results in the scientific literature.
• It is also the time when young scientists learn to work independently, develop their skills in setting up and carrying out experiments, and hone their scientific intuition.

Career Prospects

As the highest academic qualification, a PhD provides the holder with a superior qualification, not only for chemistry but in a diverse range of technical, academic, and managerial careers. The doctorate is essential for an academic career.

• In fact, while doctoral studies postpone regular employment, the significantly higher starting salary and superior possibilities for progression in most careers mean that PhD holders typically make up and surpass holders of bachelors or masters degree in just a few years.
• The American Chemical Society finds in its annual career analysis that PhD holders have better career prospects.

Structured PhD in Organic and Pharmaceutical Chemistry

Overview

The structured PhD in Organic and Pharmaceutical Chemistry, in the School of Chemistry and ABCRF, is a full-time programme of four years duration from the date of first registration of the candidates.

• The programme applies automatically if mandated by a funding agency.
• The possibility of a three-year arrangement is not excluded for self-funded individuals, if judged to be appropriate by the research supervisor.

Mandatory Modules

Students will take the five mandatory modules:

• CM6101
• CM7002
• CM7003
• CM7006
• CM7007
• Additional modules taken either for credit or on a voluntary basis (agreement of the supervisor is required) cannot be offset against the time required for laboratory-based research.
• Research supervisors may prescribe additional modules to cater for any deficiencies in the primary degree background of the student.

Assignment of Additional Modules

Assignment of additional modules in these circumstances will be decided at a meeting involving the student and the research supervisor/supervisory team (as appropriate) early in the PhD 1 year.

Studentships & Funding

Sources of Funding

There are generally two sources of available funding:

1. Funding for studentships that individual UCC researchers have as part of their research grants.
2. Funding that is awarded by an external funding agency directly to the student.

• Each of these options has its own deadlines and requirements, and both are competitive processes.
• For studentships advertised by members of the School of Chemistry, interested students should contact the person involved directly (preferably by e-mail first) providing a cover letter, CV, and academic transcripts.

External Funding Agencies

For applications to external funding agencies, suitably qualified students should get in touch with their desired PhD advisor well in advance (preferably one to two months) of the deadline.

• In this case, the student and PhD advisor will discuss a suitable project and then apply for the funding together.
• Please note that students from outside the European Union pay higher tuition fees to the university, which is not always figured into studentship funding.

How to Apply

Application Process

Full details on how to apply for a postgraduate research course are available from the Graduate Studies Office.

• Information is also available for Non-EU postgraduate applicants.
• The Irish Research Council is the main avenue for postgraduate (MSc, PhD, and Postdoctorate) funding.

Application Deadlines

Applications for Irish Research Council studentships are generally due in October or November of each year.

• Only a very limited number of awards are granted every year, and competition is open to all students wishing to study in Ireland and is across all science and technology subjects.
• For more details, please refer to the relevant funding agency's guidelines.

University College Cork

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Overview:

University College Cork (UCC) is a public research university located in Cork, Ireland. It is a constituent university of the National University of Ireland (NUI). UCC offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines.

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Services Offered:

Student Support:

UCC provides a range of support services for students, including academic advising, career counseling, and mental health services.

Library:

The Boole Library offers extensive resources, including books, journals, and online databases.

Campus Life:

UCC offers a vibrant campus life with numerous student clubs, societies, and sports teams.

Accommodation:

UCC provides on-campus accommodation options for students.

International Office:

The International Office supports international students with visa applications, cultural adjustment, and other services.

Adult Continuing Education:

UCC offers a variety of programs for adult learners, including evening classes and online courses.

Continuing Professional Development:

UCC provides professional development opportunities for working professionals.

Micro-credentials:

UCC offers micro-credentials in various fields, allowing students to gain specific skills and knowledge.

Scholarships and Prizes:

UCC offers a range of scholarships and prizes to support students financially.

Transition-In Programme:

UCC provides a transition-in program for students who are new to higher education.

Graduate Attributes:

UCC focuses on developing graduate attributes such as critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

UCC offers a vibrant campus experience with a strong sense of community. Students can participate in a wide range of activities, including sports, clubs, societies, and events. The campus is located in a beautiful setting, with easy access to the city of Cork.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

World-class Education:

UCC is renowned for its high-quality education and research.

Strong Academic Programs:

UCC offers a wide range of academic programs across various disciplines.

Vibrant Campus Life:

UCC provides a vibrant campus life with numerous opportunities for students to get involved.

Beautiful Location:

UCC is located in a beautiful setting, with easy access to the city of Cork.

International Reputation:

UCC is a globally recognized university with a strong international reputation.

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Academic Programs:

UCC offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including:

• Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences
• Business and Law
• Engineering and Science
• Medicine and Health Sciences
• Education
• Music

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Other:

• UCC is committed to sustainability and has been recognized as the world's first green campus.
• UCC is a member of the National University of Ireland (NUI).
• UCC has a strong research focus and is home to a number of research centers and institutes.
• UCC is a popular choice for international students, with a large international student population.