Applications for the academic year 2023-24 are now open. Spaces are limited! We encourage early applications. If you have any queries about the course, contact us via imse.mres@imperial.ac.uk before starting your application.

Why study molecular engineering?

Recent progress in our understanding of molecular science now allows us to make, measure and model materials with unprecedented accuracy. This presents a great opportunity to engineer better materials and molecular systems in response to the challenges faced by society. Rapid innovation in both industry and universities now relies more than ever on this combination of engineering excellence with molecular level science. 

The one-year MRes in Molecular Engineering is designed to create a new generation of 'multilingual', transdisciplinary scientists and engineers. It combines taught modules and a research project with industry to prepare STEM graduates or professionals to work in multi-disciplinary teams, both in academia and industry. Multidisciplinary employees are in high demand as organisations seek to enhance their workforce with skilled scientists and engineers who can work effectively and collaboratively to tackle the challenges they face.

You will be equipped with a grounding in the science and engineering aspects of designing, making, manufacturing, modelling, characterising and measuring the performance of molecules and materials – from atomic scale to systems level. You will gain valuable experience of working on cross-disciplinary research.

This course is the first and only Masters in Molecular Engineering in the UK. It was developed by the Institute for Molecular Science and Engineering, in collaboration with our industrial partners. The student cohort typically comprises graduates from chemical engineering or chemistry degrees, as well as students with backgrounds in materials science and engineering, physics, bioengineering and other STEM subjects. The course will also appeal to those with post-degree experience who are looking to upskill in modern research methodologies and accelerated innovation strategies.

This course was formerly known as the MRes in Molecular Science and Engineering.

Course structure

The course comprises taught modules and a 6-month research project. All projects are in close collaboration with an external partner (usually a commercial company in industry, but it could be the NHS, a national lab, or a museum). Students usually have the opportunity to undertake a research placement or visit hosted by the external partner.

• Information about modules, teaching and assessment, and how to apply
  
• Apply for the MRes here
• Student profiles - alumni and current students
• Research project topics
• Industrial partners

Full details, including how to apply, are on the Study Molecular Engineering MRes webpage.

Scholarships

The Institute for Molecular Science and Engineering offers up to two scholarships per year to offer-holders for the MRes Molecular Engineering course. To be considered for this scholarship, your application for the MRes Molecular Engineering programme must be submitted by 31 March. Find out more about our scholarships here

Other competitive scholarships for provision towards tuition fees and/or living expenses are available. These scholarships are granted on the basis of academic merit and excellence. For some students, loans may be available. Find out more about funding and fees.

Webinar – introduction to the MRes in Molecular Engineering with Q&A

Watch the MRes in Molecular Engineering webinar to find out more about the course, and meet course directors Dr Niall Mac Dowell, Dr Jerry Heng, IMSE Insitute Manager Dr Steph Pendlebury, students and alumni.

Career opportunities

This course will provide you the with fundamental and applied skills for a multi-disciplinary PhD or career in industry. Graduates are also well-placed to pursue other STEM-related opportunities, for example in policy, science communication, consultancy, and technology translation. Find out about our MRes alumni 

Student life

London is a great place to study - find out more about campus life at Imperial College, including student blogs and information about accommodation, clubs and societies, the Student Union, and sports and fitness facilities.

How to apply

Full details of minimum requirements (academic and English) and how to apply are available on the Study Molecular Engineering MRes webpage. The course code is H803. 

Applications are processed centrally before being received by the Molecular Engineering MRes Admissions Team. 

We welcome informal enquiries and questions - get in touch via imse.mres@imperial.ac.uk

Tips for a good application

Supporting statement

• No more than 1 page long (11-12 point text size, sans serif font e.g. Arial).
• At the beginning, make it clear why you are interested in the MRes in Molecular Engineering course, and what your relevant experience is.
• Clearly state what research areas and you are most interested in.
• Clearly provide a summary of relevant previous research project(s) that you have undertaken.

CV (Curriculum Vitae)

• Note that the word "resumé" is not used in the UK.
• No more than 2 pages long.
• Do include: academic qualifications and degree classification/grade (final/predicted); information about previous research project(s) and supervisors; information about any time spent in industry; experience with relevant analytical/synthetic techniques, programming, etc
• Do not include: date of birth/age, marital status, gender, height, weight, nationality