The ‘Lights Out Factory’: Application of digital manufacturing methods to the development of optimal, fully automated engineering and business systems for precision machining facilities.

The Aerospace and Manufacturing cluster based in the School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at the Queen’s University of Belfast, specialises in simulation methods for the design of advanced manufacturing solutions for the aerospace industry. Work conducted within the cluster over the past 20 years has made the school a recognised centre of commercial as well as academic expertise in engineering simulation and digital manufacturing. One specific area of expertise lies in the domain of automated process development and optimal factory design. With ongoing commercial and regulatory pressures to design more efficient factories and maximise manufacturing efficiencies across supply chains, the economic stakes are high for manufacturers in this area.

As a result we are seeking to recruit a Ph.D. student to work as part of our team in collaboration with a world class provider of precision machined components and services to the Aerospace industry. We are looking for a suitably qualified candidate capable of developing novel digital manufacturing tools to establish an automated manufacturing system design solution for the production of high value, precision machined components. The work will require the use of virtual simulation methods for the analysis and specification of automated production facilities resulting in a ‘lights out’ factory. The successful applicant will be expected to apply novel research methods to fundamental business practice aimed at a transition from replacement part production to fully automated volume production for new, high value business. The work is expected to deliver a production facility design framework providing academic novelty through improved supply chain integration as well as opportunities for improved return of investment and increased market share for the industrial partner. Applicants need to demonstrate skill sets in practical engineering in a production environment as well as high levels of computer literacy. Experience in the use of computer aided design (CAD), discrete event simulation are essential. The successful applicant will be based in Northern Ireland and will be expected to engage with professional design and manufacturing teams at the industrial partner as well as companies in their supply chain. Good self management and communication skills are therefore essential. Basic knowledge of product lifecycle management (PLM) systems would also be an advantage.

Applicants for the studentship should have or expect to obtain a first or upper second class honours degree or equivalent, in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering. A Master’s degree in a relevant subject or post graduate industrial experience in a relevant area would be advantageous but are not essential.

Applications will be assessed as received and should be made electronically through the Queen’s online application portal at http://go.qub.ac.uk/pgapply.

Should you have any queries regarding the application process please contact Ms Sandra Traynor by email to: s.traynor<στο>qub.ac.uk

Informal enquiries and request for additional information for this post can be made to Dr Joe Butterfield (j.butterfield<στο>qub.ac.uk).

The studentship offers a stipend of £18,000+ per annum (tax free) depending on experience and covers fees at the UK/EU student rate.

The closing date for applications is Wednesday 10 December 2014.