CMAC PhD programme
Where ambition meets innovation in medicines manufacturing.
Applications are now open for our CEDAR PhD programme.
Programme overview
Our PhD programme is designed to produce the next generation of leaders in pharmaceutical manufacturing. By combining cutting-edge research with hands-on industry experience, we equip our students with the skills, knowledge, and real-world insight needed to drive innovation in the sector.
We offer our researchers the unique opportunity to work on research projects co-designed with leading industrial partners in the pharmaceutical industry. This collaboration ensures that students are not only working on high-impact, real-world challenges but are also gaining valuable experience that is directly relevant to industry needs.
With 50% of our graduates progressing into industry roles and 45% continuing their research careers in academia, our PhD programme offers the perfect balance for those interested in a career in medicines manufacturing.
Programme pathways
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CEDAR Centre for Doctoral Training
CEDAR offers an exciting environment for research students wanting to make a difference in the future of medicines manufacturing.
Through hands-on experience, collaboration with industry and access to cutting-edge technologies, you'll be evolving the development of medicines manufacture — making them more accessible, affordable and sustainable.
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MediForge
MediForge is redefining the future of pharmaceutical manufacturing through its pioneering Industry 5.0 approach, blending advanced technologies with human-centric design to create more sustainable and resilient systems.
Each year, we recruit PhD students to join this mission, offering the opportunity to contribute to real-world solutions that will shape the next era of medicines manufacturing.
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PhD@Work
Earn your PhD while continuing to thrive in your professional role.
The PhD@Work programme bridges academia and industry, enabling you to tackle real-world challenges through original research, without stepping away from your career.
Real experiences
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![Ishwari Wale, PhD researcher at CMAC]()
"Joining CMAC was one of the most defining steps in my academic journey, and it's been incredibly rewarding both personally and professionally."
Ishwari Wale, PhD researcher at CMAC
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![Theo Tait, PhD researcher at CMAC]()
"For students eager to push the boundaries of pharmaceutical manufacturing, build a strong professional network, and develop in-demand skills in data-driven research and process modeling, a PhD at CMAC is a stellar choice."
Theo Tait, PhD researcher at CMAC
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![Irene Moreno Flores, PhD researcher at CMAC]()
"CMAC helps you develop your skills and expertise in line with industry needs, offering a pathway to success through collaboration with industry partners."
Irene Moreno Flores, PhD researcher at CMAC
Why choose CMAC?
Top research institutions
Based at the University of Strathclyde, with opportunities also available at the Universities of Leeds, Sheffield and Imperial College London.
World-class facilities
Train in CMAC’s state-of-the-art lab facilities, equipped with cutting-edge technologies including AI, robotics and augmented reality.
Industrial placements
Gain experience through placements and collaborative projects with leading pharma companies, such as AstraZeneca, Chiesi, Eli Lilly, Pfizer, Roche, Sanofi, Takeda and UCB.
Global networking
Opportunities to present your work at international conferences and and expand your professional network across both academia and industry.
Your gateway to industry
CMAC PhD students gain more than just research expertise — they build lasting connections and make a real impression in the pharmaceutical sector.
Through innovative industrial placements with Tier 1 partners such as Pfizer, our students gain hands-on experience, industry knowledge, and the chance to work on real-world challenges that shape both their research and their future careers.
In this video, Research Fellow Kevin Girrard from Pfizer explains why CMAC is a trusted partner and why leading pharma companies look to our programme to find the next generation of scientific talent.
