Programme overview

At CMAC, 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.

Our PhD programme offers a unique opportunity to work on research projects co-designed with leading industrial partners in the pharmaceutical industry. This collaboration ensures that our 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.

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.