MPhil and PhD Computer Science

This research programme is designed to cultivate world-class researchers through an immersive, hands-on research experience that pushes the boundaries of computer science. You'll have access to our exceptional facilities in Infolab21, Lancaster's dedicated centre for computing and communications research, which houses specialised laboratories for security systems, data science, mobile computing, and human-computer interaction, all equipped with cutting-edge experimental hardware and software platforms. Your research journey will be powered by state-of-the-art tools and involves designing, implementing, and evaluating novel computing systems that address significant real-world challenges.

Here's how you'll gain advanced research experience:

• Specialised Research Software & Tools: You will develop expertise with research-grade tools specific to your field, which may include NS-3 for network simulation, ROS for robotics, TensorFlow/PyTorch for machine learning research, or custom-built experimental frameworks.

• Original Research Contribution: The core of your programme is your original research project, where you will design and execute a substantial research plan, potentially involving system building, theoretical proof, algorithm development, or empirical studies that create new knowledge in computer science.

• Security Laboratories: You may work in our internationally recognised security labs, including our isolated test networks and cyber-physical systems testbeds for conducting security experiments and vulnerability research.

• Data Science Infrastructure: You will have access to our high-performance computing cluster and big data infrastructure for computationally intensive experiments and large-scale data analysis.

• Mobile and Ubiquitous Computing Lab: You can utilize our specialized equipment for experimenting with Internet of Things (IoT) systems, sensor networks, and mobile computing platforms.

• Human-Computer Interaction Facilities: You may work in our interaction lab with eye-trackers, motion capture systems, and augmented reality equipment for conducting user studies and interface experiments.

• Research Group Collaboration: You will be embedded in one of our research groups, participating in regular lab meetings, research seminars, and collaborative problem-solving sessions with fellow researchers.

• Academic Community Engagement: You will have opportunities to present your work at international conferences, contribute to academic publications, and potentially engage with our industry research partners.

Graduates of the MPhil/PhD Computer Science programme at Lancaster emerge as highly skilled researchers and professionals—ready to take on roles as university researchers, R&D engineers, data scientists, or technology consultants. Many also progress to academic leadership or continue their careers through postdoctoral study, supported by the programme’s recognition for world-leading research quality. 

Progression & Future Opportunities:
Here’s how Lancaster ensures you’re supported from Day 1 through to independent expertise:

• University Services to Boost Employability

  • You’ll benefit from dedicated supervision, tailored research training courses, and regular progress reviews to help you realise your full potential as an independent researcher. Opportunities to act as a teaching assistant offer valuable teaching experience and financial support. 

• Employment Stats & Funding

  • Though direct PhD salary data is limited, doctoral researchers at Lancaster typically receive funding via sources such as research councils, industry, or university scholarships. Teaching assistant income also helps during the programme. 

• University–Industry Partnerships

  • Lancaster’s School of Computing and Communications is an international centre of excellence, ranked 14th in the UK for research power—94% of its research was rated world-leading or internationally excellent in REF 2021. With a £21 million grant portfolio and multiple interdisciplinary centres—including Cyber-Security, Data Science, and Social Futures—you’ll be fully immersed in collaborative, impactful research environments. 

• Long-Term Accreditation Value

  • A research doctorate from Lancaster carries extraordinary academic prestige and opens doors to leadership in research, academia, or high-tech industry. Its proven research pedigree gives you credibility and mobility in global research and professional landscapes.

• Graduation Outcomes

  • You’ll complete your MPhil/PhD deeply equipped—capable of independent innovation, scholarly contribution, and high-impact problem-solving. Whether progressing into academia, R&D roles, or strategic industry positions, the experience positions you as a leading expert in your field.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing your MPhil/PhD, many alumni continue on postdoctoral research or enter advanced industry or policy-focused roles. With Lancaster’s strong interdisciplinary networks and your research training, you’ll be positioned for sustained academic excellence and influential leadership.