Applications are invited for a PhD studentship in advanced composite materials Candidates should hold, or expect to hold a first or upper second class honours degree in engineering/materials or a cognate area. Applications will be considered on a competitive basis with regard to the candidate’s qualifications, skills, experience and interests. Successful candidates will enrol as of January 2015, on a full-time programme of research studies leading to the award of the degree of Doctor of Philosophy.

The studentship will comprise fees (Home and EU, due to funding) and an annual stipend of £13,863. It will be awarded for a period of up to three years subject to satisfactory progress and is tenable in the Faculty of Engineering at the Jordanstown Campus and NIACE.

The closing date for receipt of completed applications is 28th November 2014.
Interviews will be held in December 2014.

This exciting and challenging research will consider the further development of advanced composite based on biomimetic structures since current synthetic systems lack the dynamic functionality of their natural counterparts. The creation of microvascular networks within composite structures needs to be suitable for the rapid, large-scale production of fibre-reinforced composites. The development of advanced preforming technologies allows for the seamless integration of these networks within carbon fibre composites and the ability to tailor the resultant composite structure. This project will examine the integration and subsequent functional aspect of the material, particularly focussing on the requirements of the aerospace industrial sector.

If you wish to discuss or receive advice on research please contact:

Dr Alistair McIlhagger a.mcilhagger<στο>ulster.ac.uk or 02890366670

For further information on the application process please visit our website:http://study.ulster.ac.uk/postgraduate/applying.php

Apply online www.ulster.ac.uk/applyonline