MPhil in Chemical Engineering

If you choose the MPhil in Chemical Engineering at Queen’s University Belfast, you’re stepping into a world where your research can really make a difference. This isn’t about just reading textbooks it’s about designing experiments, testing ideas, and tackling real-world challenges like sustainable energy, carbon capture, and greener chemical processes. You’ll be guided by expert supervisors but have the freedom to explore topics that excite you.

Here’s what your hands-on learning looks like:

• Work on Real Research Projects – You’ll focus on a topic that matters to you, whether it’s ionic liquids, sustainable manufacturing, or healthcare materials. Your project could involve lab experiments, process design, or simulation.

• QUILL Labs – Get access to Queen’s University Ionic Liquid Laboratories, where cutting-edge research on “super solvents” is taking place. You might even work with mini pilot-scale setups, just like in industry.

• Advanced Laboratories – From high-field NMR and X-ray diffraction to mass spectrometry and gas chromatography, you’ll have all the tools you need to really understand your experiments.

• Research Centres with Impact – You could work alongside groups like CASE (Centre for Advanced Sustainable Energy), QUILL, or CO2@QUB, tackling big challenges like clean energy, circular manufacturing, and carbon capture.

• Freedom & Support – You’ll have a small supervisory team guiding you, but plenty of flexibility to shape your research your way.

• Collaboration & Industry Links – The School works closely with companies and global research partners, so there are opportunities for collaboration, site visits, and real-world insights.

• Library & Research Resources – Full access to Queen’s libraries and specialized chemical engineering resources helps you dive deep into your work.

At Queen’s, you’ll graduate not just with a degree, but with real research experience, practical skills, and confidence in your ability to solve meaningful chemical engineering problems.

The MPhil in Chemical Engineering at Queen’s University Belfast is perfect if you’re passionate about research and making a real-world impact. Graduates often go on to become research scientists, R&D engineers, or continue into a PhD, working in areas like sustainable processes, clean technologies, or advanced materials.

Future Progression & Opportunities:
Here’s how this program supports your career and opens doors:

• Support from the University:

  • QUB’s Graduate Support Office is there to guide you through the next steps  from one-to-one career advice to access to job portals and ongoing support for up to two years after graduation.

  • You’ll also get strong mentorship from academic supervisors and research groups, helping you shape both your projects and your future career.

• Research & Real-World Impact:

  • You’ll be part of cutting-edge research centres like QUILL (Queen’s Ionic Liquid Laboratories), working on sustainable chemical solutions with global relevance.

  • Your projects can have real-world applications, from renewable energy to greener chemical manufacturing.

  • Collaborative, interdisciplinary research with chemists, physicists, and industry partners ensures your work is both academically and practically relevant.

• Industry Connections & Experience:

  • The School of Chemistry & Chemical Engineering has strong links with industry, giving your research applied value and helping you build professional networks.

  • Your experience with advanced technologies like catalysis and ionic liquids makes you highly attractive to companies focused on sustainability and innovation.

• Long-Term Value:

  • Queen’s is a Russell Group university, known for research excellence, giving your degree real credibility.

  • Your MPhil research experience positions you strongly for a PhD, postdoctoral work, or R&D roles in industry.

  • The advanced technical expertise you gain can also support future professional accreditation, such as Chartered Engineer status.

• Typical Roles Graduates Take On:

  1. Research Scientist / R&D Engineer – developing new chemical processes or sustainable solutions

  2. Process Development Engineer – improving industrial chemical operations

  3. PhD Candidate / Academic Researcher – continuing advanced research

  4. Industrial Innovation Specialist – turning cutting-edge research into real-world applications

Further Academic Progression:
After completing your MPhil, you could:

• Continue onto a PhD, often in the same research area, supported by QUB’s well-funded labs.

• Take on postdoctoral research positions, either at QUB or internationally, potentially in industry-funded projects.

• Move into specialised industry roles in R&D, sustainability, or innovative chemical engineering projects