WMG and Aston Martin Lagonda are seeking a top class candidate to undertake research leading to the award of an International Engineering Doctorate from the University of Warwick.

As a ‘Research Entrepreneur’ on our International Doctorate programme you will have unrivalled access to some of the best teaching and industrial expertise in the world.  You will emerge from the four-year programme more confident and better equipped to make a difference to your company and the global marketplace. 

This opportunity also provides a substantial tax free stipend equivalent to many graduate jobs.

Project

Investigate the application of anodising alternative technologies for automotive body structure application.

Adhesive and Pre-treatment characterisation are critical elements in the development of structurally bonded vehicles. Significant research over the last 25 years between OEM’s and chemical companies has resulted in major advances in the understanding and hence the capability of bonded joints.

To maintain a competitive position in the application of adhesives requires the full understanding of the latest in industrial systems.  This necessitates that a broad set of requirements ranging from the costs, supply chain, manufacturing and ultimately the performance vs comprehensive engineering standards are fully evaluated prior to production implementation.

This EngD International project will investigate and evaluate alternative state of the art adhesive joining technology to support the business case to move towards more cost effective processes. The goal being to support decision making across all business functions and, if successful, enable robust implementation.

This work will build from evaluation of joining system at component level up to more complex systems such as vehicle level durability and crash testing. The studentship will involve liaising with other business functions and collaborating industrial and academic partners involved in the project, and lead to a good understanding of the overall process for volume production.

Business Need and Opportunity

Reduce the significant cost associated with assembly anodising while retaining or improving the performance.

Entry Requirements

Qualifications

Candidates should have a minimum of an upper second (2.1) honours degree (or equivalent) in Mechanical, Materials or Process Engineering.

Attributes

• High levels of innovative thought and lateral thinking
• Excellent analytical and reporting skills
• Excellent communication skills
• Strong computer skills and the ability to learn new software quickly
• Self-motivated, capable of working with minimal guidance and supervision, and within a team.
• Enthusiasm for the subject

Due to funding regulations this project is open to Home/EU students only.

The Studentship

Qualifying students receive an attractive enhanced stipend which could be tax and NI free depending on your personal circumstances, paid by the International Doctorate Centre and topped up by a contribution from Aston Martin Lagonda. For 2014 this totals approximately £19,000 tax free per annum.

The funding is for four years and will also cover University tuition fees and all course fees as well as a travel allowance to attend courses.

Apply

To apply please complete our online enquiry form and upload your CV.