The Henry Royce Institute has announced a new opportunity for early-career researchers, offering fully-funded access to two specialist eLearning courses delivered by the National Physical Laboratory (NPL). The scheme is designed to strengthen measurement and metrology skills among first-year PhD students working in materials science and related disciplines.
Through the initiative, eligible researchers can apply for free enrolment on two core online modules: Introduction to Measurement and Metrology and Introduction to Measurement Uncertainty. Together, these courses provide a foundation in measurement science, helping researchers develop the skills needed to generate reliable, high-quality data in materials research.
The training is delivered via NPL’s online platform, allowing participants to complete the courses flexibly alongside their research commitments. Successful learners will receive a certificate of completion from NPL, recognising their achievement and supporting their professional development.
Royce emphasises that accurate measurement is central to delivering robust materials science, underpinning reproducibility, validation of models, and innovation across areas such as additive manufacturing, battery technologies, nanotechnology, and biomaterials. Developing a strong understanding of metrology enables researchers to assess uncertainty, compare datasets with confidence, and design more effective experiments. These skills are essential for PhD study and highly valued in both academia and industry.
The scheme is open to researchers based at UK institutions who are undertaking a PhD in materials science or a closely related field, with priority given to those in the first year of their doctoral studies. Places are limited and will be awarded to applicants who demonstrate the relevance of metrology to their research.
Applications for this round of Royce Support are open until 31 March 2026, and interested students are encouraged to apply early.
