Studentship: EngD Studentship in the EPSRC Centre in Doctoral Training (CDT) in Innovation for Sustainable Composites Engineering

Embark on a Cutting-Edge EngD in Sustainable Composites Manufacturing

Are you a driven individual with a passion for innovation and sustainability in engineering? This exciting EngD opportunity, within the newly established Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT) for Innovation for Sustainable Composites Engineering (launched in 2024), offers a unique chance to shape the future of composite materials manufacturing.

This project, "Double Diaphragm Forming for Sustainable Composites Manufacturing," is a collaboration with industry leader Syensqo and supervised by esteemed academics Prof. Lee Harper and Dr. Davide De Focatiis. It delves into a critical area of advanced manufacturing, with research focus areas spanning Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Design Engineering, and Materials Science.

Key Advantages for Your Career Path:

• Industry Immersion: Spend approximately 75% of your time on-site with Syensqo, one of the world's leading specialty chemicals companies. This provides unparalleled real-world experience in industrial-scale composite manufacturing, a benefit rarely offered in traditional academic programs.
• Hands-On Innovation: Gain practical expertise with state-of-the-art composite materials and cutting-edge manufacturing techniques. This positions you at the forefront of technological advancements, preparing you for a career at the intersection of academic research and industrial application.
• Drive Sustainable Solutions: Contribute to the development of environmentally responsible manufacturing processes. This project focuses on improving material efficiency and producing high-performance composite structures, aligning with global demands for sustainable practices.
• World-Class Training: Undertake your doctoral-level training at the University of Bristol, a globally recognized institution renowned for its leadership in composites research. This provides a robust academic foundation and access to extensive resources.
• Financial Support: Benefit from an enhanced stipend of £26,780 for 2026/27, coverage of home tuition fees, and generous financial support for your research and training.
• Extended Research Horizon: This EngD spans 4 years, offering ample time to conduct in-depth research, develop impactful solutions, and build a strong portfolio of work.

Considerations for Aspiring Candidates:

• Project Focus: The project tackles the challenges of defect-free Double Diaphragm Forming (DDF) for composites. This involves developing predictive models and tools to optimize material selection and process parameters, aiming to overcome limitations in fibre orientation and wrinkling prevention.
• Academic Requirements: Applicants should hold a minimum of a 2:1 in an MEng degree or a merit at Masters level (or equivalent) in engineering, physics, or chemistry. Exceptional candidates with a first-class undergraduate degree but without a Master's qualification may also be considered.
• Eligibility: This opportunity is open to Home/permanent UK residents.
• Readiness for Research: Successful candidates will need to demonstrate their readiness to pursue a research degree and perform well in an interview.
• Application Materials: Be prepared to submit a personal statement detailing your experience and interests, along with your CV and academic transcript.
• Key Dates: Mark your calendar for the closing date of January 29th, 2026. The anticipated start date is September 2026.

This EngD represents a significant step forward in your career, offering a blend of rigorous academic training and invaluable industrial experience. If you are passionate about pushing the boundaries of sustainable composite manufacturing, this is an opportunity not to be missed.