skip to content

EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Future Infrastructure and Built Environment: Unlocking Net Zero (FIBE3 CDT)

 
Read more at: How to apply

How to apply

Step 1:  Applying

Applications for October 2025 are now open. Please submit an application following the link to the University of Cambridge Graduate Admissions portal below, ensuring that your research proposal articulates how your research interest aligns with the FIBE3 themes (see Roadmap and Research Enablers), and identifies the FIBE3 CDT industry partners to whom your research would be relevant.

All applications for this course are made online through the University of Cambridge Graduate Admissions portal: https://www.postgraduate.study.cam.ac.uk/applying/how-do-i-apply

The Graduate Admissions website also provides useful information on entry requirements and funding: https://www.postgraduate.study.cam.ac.uk/

The closing date for applications is 16th May 2025.

 

Step 2:  Interview for a place on the programme

Following initial discussions with the interested candidates and the receipt of complete online applications, a number of candidates will be invited to a formal interview with the head of FIBE3 and other representatives from the centre and potential supervisor(s). The interview will consider both the technical suitability for the proposed field of research as well as suitability for the FIBE3 CDT programme. Interviews will take place either in Cambridge or over Zoom.

 

Step 3: Receiving an offer

Decisions for candidates eligible for FIBE3 studentships will be made as soon as reasonably possible after the interviews. 

 


Read more at: Who are we looking for?

Who are we looking for?

  • Successful applicants require high level engineering or science skills. We welcome candidates with a background in any engineering discipline (civil, mechanical, chemical, manufacturing, electrical, information and others) or relevant science discipline (including materials science, earth science, environmental science, computer science, mathematics, chemistry) as well as other relevant disciplines including architecture and project management. Some applicants may have industrial experience.
  • Students are expected to have a good upper second class (2.1) or first class honours degree from a UK university or an equivalent standard from an overseas university.
  • Candidates must have completed at least a three-year degree. 
  • Entrance is competitive and successful applicants are likely to have high academic achievements.
  • EPSRC funding (home fees+stipend) is available to eligible home students. While UKRI funding will not cover international fees, the University may be able to meet the fee difference through other sources, for a limited number of outstanding international applicants. Applicants will also be considered for funding through the University funding competition. 

The University of Cambridge is committed in its pursuit of academic excellence to equality of opportunity and to a proactive and inclusive approach to equality, which supports and encourages all under-represented groups, promotes an inclusive culture, and values diversity. 

 


Read more at: Why should you apply?

Why should you apply?

  • You will be exposed to the broad field of unlocking net zero infrastructure and built environment.
  • You will learn from and work with leading industry figures.
  • You will become part of an active and diverse community of academics, post-docs and graduate students within the University.
  • The MRes year and its associated modules provide context for a range of professional, commercial and personal skills training while the MRes research project forms the start of the PhD study. 
     
  • The 4-year MRes + PhD course promotes technical, personal and professional net zero attributes and leverage significant input and involvement with academic, research and industry staff with a wide range of expertise.
  • On completion you will have expert knowledge in the area of unlocking net zero infrastructure and built environment, relevant to your research project.

 


Read more at: Eligibility and funding

Eligibility and funding

The EPSRC FIBE3 CDT studentships are fully-funded (fees and maintenance) for eligible home students and a limited number of international students. While UKRI funding will not cover international fees, the University may be able to meet the fee difference through other sources for a limited number of outstanding applicants. Applicants will also be considered for funding through the University funding competition. However, it should be noted that the admissions and funding application process is highly competitive. 

Further details about eligibility and funding can be found at:

https://www.ukri.org/what-we-do/developing-people-and-skills/esrc/funding-for-postgraduate-training-and-development/eligibility-for-studentship-funding/

https://www.postgraduate.study.cam.ac.uk/finance/fees 

https://www.cambridgetrust.org/scholarships/

Unsure of your fee status?

If you are unsure of your fee status, we advise that you consult the UKCISA Guidance in the first instance: UKCISA- England Fee Status: Higher Education.

For further information, you can also find details on fee status criteria here:
https://www.postgraduate.study.cam.ac.uk/finance/fees/what-my-fee-status
https://www.fee-status.admin.cam.ac.uk/

Unfortunately, we are not able to confirm fee status before the point of offer. If you are made an offer of admission to the University, your offer will state what we believe your fee status to be. This will be based on the information you have provided in your application form, and according to the relevant UK legislation, regulations and guidance published by the UK Government.
 

 


Read more at: Industry + MRes + PhD (I+) Scheme

Industry + MRes + PhD (I+) Scheme

The CDT runs an Industry+MRes+PhD (I+) Scheme, where successful applicants to the scheme will spend a year employed by an industry partner prior to starting the MRes.

Students who wish to apply for the I+Scheme must be eligible to work in the UK. Please read the Home Office's website for further information.

The I+Scheme will be considered on a case-by-case basis and availability will be dependent on the individual project and sponsoring industry partner.

Applicants should apply through the normal process but indicate on their application form that they would be interested in the I+Scheme as an option.

All applications will be assessed to identify whether the experience and qualifications meet the entry requirements and objectives of the Centre. If there is a potential match, applicants will be invited to attend an interview.

There may also be an interview with the appropriate industry partner. Please note that each industry partner will run the I+Scheme in a way that best suits their requirements.