Postgraduate research

When it comes to research, we’re hungry. We’ve almost doubled our output of ‘world-leading’ research (REF 2014), and we're fitting our research closer than ever to real-world needs - all part of our drive to become the UK’s leading modern university for research.

You’ll have an even wider choice of study areas at UEL, as we expand the number of our staff working on high-quality research.
We almost doubled our output of world-leading research, with 62 per cent rated internationally excellent (REF 2014).
We're researching advanced robotic and neuroimaging techniques to develop pioneering treatments for stroke patients.
We provide a £325,000 scholarship package for postgraduate students, and have invested heavily in new research facilities.
Our Knowledge Dock helps staff and students develop applied UEL research streams into successful business start-ups.
Our community connections in London and worldwide help our researchers carry out studies benefiting local people.

Your research at UEL will benefit from our location at the heart of Europe’s largest regeneration area, rich in global companies and street-level creativity.

Our research programmes are wired into that energy, through our many contacts with our east London community neighbours. As part of our Civic Engagement drive, many of our taught research programmes involve working with community projects - helping real people and advancing knowledge at the same time.

There are no barriers. You’ll be working closely with our academic staff - and in many cases have a chance to gain teaching experience by supervising undergraduates. Our postgraduate students highly rate their training and the degree of responsibility we offer: 89 per cent of postgraduate students felt they were encouraged to ask questions or make contributions in taught sessions, while 82 per cent felt their research skills had developed during their courses.

We’ll give you the tools of the trade too: we’ve invested £170 million in new buildings and facilities over the past few years - including our new £14 million library in our Docklands campus.

How do I fund my research?

Start your postgraduate journey today by finding out about our £325,000 package of scholarships and other funding sources.

Find out about postgraduate funding

Research Excellence Framework (REF 2014)

Research for the real world

Research strategy

By studying for a research degree at UEL, you are making a big investment in your career, and making yourself stand out in an ever-more competitive jobs market.

A research degree a big commitment, so you’ll need to be highly organised, motivated and able to work independently for a minimum of three years’ full-time study.

Whether you’re motivated by a passion for study, a deep interest in a particular field where UEL has expertise, or simply to advance your career, you’ll find UEL a supportive place to pursue your interests.

The main research-based courses are the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) and Masters of Philosophy (MPhil). There are also many professional doctorates – aimed mainly at professionals who have already begun their careers.

You should study the relevant School’s pages and courses to see if there an academic member of staff who might be able to supervise your study. Once you’ve found supervisors able and willing to oversee your research, you can apply through the Graduate School