The CCDC trained a number of PhD students under normal academic grants during its period as part of the Department of Chemistry. The Centre is fully committed to the support and welfare of students, including the active management of any problems that may arise. In the local environment, the Centre collaborates fully with the policies and procedures of the Board of Graduate Studies, Degree Committees, and the Colleges. Relevant Statutes and Ordinances of the University of Cambridge, and the customs and practices of the cognate Department (Chemistry) are strictly adhered to. Direct feedback from students is both sought and welcomed. All PhD students are probationary in the first year and progression to the second year (and registration for the PhD) depends on a successful first year review. Towards the end of the first year students are required to submit a written progress report. In addition to covering the research work completed during the year this should contain a review of appropriate literature and a clear indication of how the PhD will develop in the second and third years. The report is examined by two assessors and an oral examination of the report will be undertaken. By the end of the programme, students will have: a comprehensive understanding of techniques, and a thorough knowledge of the literature, applicable to their own research; demonstrated originality in the application of knowledge, together with a practical understanding of how research and enquiry are used to create and interpret knowledge in their field; shown abilities in the critical evaluation of current research and research techniques and methodologies; demonstrated some self-direction and originality in tackling and solving problems, and acted autonomously in the planning and implementation of research and followed a comprehensive transferable skills training programme to develop skills and attributes for future careers.