Overview

This is a potential research degree area, subject to the approval of the University. If you are interested in undertaking a research degree in this area.

The food and drink industry is extremely important to the UK/Scottish economy and Abertay research within the Division of Engineering and Food Science is at the forefront of new developments and knowledge transfer in food innovation and sustainability.

Current research projects cover a range of food science and technology topics. These include: evaluation of novel yeasts for whisky fermentations, legumes as sustainable raw materials for foods and beverages, non-thermal food preservation processes, ultrasound extraction of food bioactives, Maillard reaction products, food antioxidants, E-cigarette emissions, sensory science using electromyography and chemistry of oak maturation of spirits.

Experts in the Division are also researching aspects of human nutrition and public health and have been contributing to Scottish Government policy on food and dietary issues specifically pertaining to Scotland.

We collaborate closely with industry and external research institutes and have excellent laboratory and pilot plant facilities for research and new product development, together with a state-of-the art sensory suite for consumer evaluation of novel food and drink products.

Our research degrees

You have the option of studying an MSc by Research, an MPhil or a PhD.

When deciding which degree is right for you, you should consider the level of commitment required, the duration, cost and your career aspirations.

That being said, our research degrees are flexible. You can begin an MSc or an MPhil and then seek to transfer to a PhD without having to start your project all over again. You can also switch from full-time to part-time study, and vice versa.

PhD

The award of the Doctor of Philosophy demonstrates that the main focus of your work is your personal contribution to knowledge in your discipline or field, through original research or the original application of existing knowledge.

How long is a PhD?

If you are studying full-time, you are expected to complete the award in 36 months. The minimum period to receive this is award is 24 months and the maximum is 48 months.

If you are studying part-time, you are expected to complete the award in 48 months. The minimum period to receive this award on a part-time basis is 72 months and the maximum is 96 months.