Overview
Area Engineering
Location UK Other
Closing Date Saturday 02 May 2026
Reference ENG321
This exciting opportunity is based within the Composites Research Group at Faculty of Engineering which conducts cutting edge research in advanced manufacturing of high-performance composites
Vision
We are looking for an outstanding PhD student with either strong background in computational modelling or significant experience of laboratory work, who is keen to work at the interface between simulation, composites manufacturing and advanced sensing techniques. The project will provide opportunities to develop skills in these areas and contribute to the development of the next generation composite structures.
The project brings together two research groups to create the next generation of composite structures. These structures will combine high-performance and integrated sensing starting from the manufacturing process. The embedded optical fibre sensing will be used in conjunction with advanced numerical models for monitoring of composites manufacturing and structural performance.
Motivation
High-performance composite structures are critical to the next generation of lightweight, energy-efficient engineering systems such as aerostructures or wind turbine blades. This project aims to move from passive composites toward a new generation of smart structures with built-in sensing and intelligence. By integrating optical fibre sensors directly into composite materials and combining them with physics-based modelling, the project aims to enable tighter control of manufacturing processes, reduce defects, and produce lighter, more durable, and more reliable composite structures. Ultimately, this approach will support a more controlled, data-informed manufacturing environment and improve structural performance across the full lifecycle of high-value engineered components.
Aim
The student will have opportunities to:
* Work with the leading UK research group in Composites and Photonics;
* Access to the composites manufacturing lab and appropriate training;
* Training in use of optical fibres for advanced sensing;
* Training in advanced modelling of manufacturing processes and composite structures;
* To present their work to industrial partners and leading academics at international conferences.
Who We Are Looking For
We are looking for a student with an interest in solving real-world problems. Ideally, the student would have an engineering background by enthusiastic students from our backgrounds are welcome.
The students mush have at least 2:1 degree in a relevant field. Applicants with the prior knowledge and experience in one or more of the following fields are encouraged to apply: computer programming (any programming language), finite element modelling or computational fluid dynamics, composites mechanics, composites manufacturing, statistical modelling.
Funding support
After a suitable candidate is found, funding is then sought from the University of Nottingham as part of a competitive process (this will cover home tuition fees and UKRI stipend)
The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.
The Faculty of Engineering provides a thriving working environment for all PGRs creating a strong sense of community across research disciplines. Community and research culture is important to our PGRs and the FoE support this by working closely with our Postgraduate Research Society (PGES) and our PGR Research Group Reps to enhance the research environment for PGRs. PGRs benefit from training through the Researcher Academy’s Training Programme, those based within the Faculty of Engineering have access to bespoke courses developed for Engineering PGRs. including sessions on paper writing, networking and career development after the PhD. The Faculty has outstanding facilities and works in partnership with leading industrial partners.
Please contact Mikhail Matveev with your CV and supporting statement to apply for this project - mikhail.matveev@nottingham.ac.uk
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