Engineering

PhD project description: Inkjet printing allows multiple materials to be 3D printed concurrently, rather than sequentially, allowing greater design control. We will use leading-edge multi-material inkjet 3D printing technology to develop functional devices composed of advanced engineering materials, including 3D-printed ceramics and nanoparticle composites. We will develop advanced ceramic nanoparticle-filled resins and will control the 3D distribution of differing functional materials to give high-resolution control over graded properties, graded chemistries, and 3D-integrated components. We will investigate 3D multi-ceramic printing of materials with functional properties spanning interests of mechanical properties, thermal management, electrical conduction, and chemical power storage. We will develop control over the bonding at interfaces between materials and layers, achieving new engineering solutions for ceramic and composite components only possible through additive manufacturing. 

Completion of this PhD will enable routes into both industry and academia. Working in world-class laboratory facilities with leading experts in development of materials, techniques, and characterisation methods for functional 3D printing, you will develop skills in photopolymer chemistry, materials development for 3D printing (including resins, composites, and ceramics), design engineering and materials processing for additive manufacturing.   You will also develop skills in characterisation, including electron microscopy and advanced spectrometry techniques.  You will have access to the equipment and expertise of the Centre for Additive Manufacturing (CfAM), one of the largest 3D printing research groups in the world with leading-edge equipment unavailable anywhere else.

An ideal candidate will have interest in 3D printing and its applications, a knowledge of the materials sciences of ceramics and matrix-filler composites, and an inquisitive spirit motivated to develop a world-leading expertise.

Eligibility

• Due to funding restrictions, the position is only available for home/UK candidates

• Candidates must possess or expect to obtain, a 2:1 or first-class degree in a Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or Physical Sciences related discipline.

How to apply

Please send a copy of your covering letter, CV and academic transcripts to cfam@nottingham.ac.uk referring to the project title. 

Start date: The studentship is available to start immediately, no later than October 2023.

Closing date: applications will be evaluated on a rolling basis until a suitable candidate is appointed.