Additive Manufacturing or 3D Printing (3DP) as it is more commonly known is a rapidly developing emerging technology. This project provides an opportunity to be involved in the research into 3D Printing, particularly from the point of view of the design and intellectual property implications surrounding mass customisation and scanning technology.

Traditional mass customisation is highly profitable but provides limited flexibility for customising individual objects. 3D Printing enables mass customisation, where consumers are presented with an ‘incomplete product’ which they can customise before it is completed. The proliferation of accessible scanning capabilities leading to real-time photogrammetric and cloud-based data processing which will eclipse the more traditional laser-scanning solutions will also have an effect on product design and intellectual property implications.

As such, the project will explore both the product design issues as well as the Intellectual Property implications associated with these aspects of the technology. Collaborating with Econolyst Ltd, with 20 years experience in the field of 3D printing will further enhance this project whilst giving the candidate a placement opportunity within Econolyst Ltd during the course of the project.

The project brings together expertise from the fields of Intellectual Property Law, Product Design and industry expertise in 3D Printing.

The project will be carried under the principal supervision of Dr. Dinusha Mendis, Associate Professor in Law and Co-Director of the Centre for Intellectual Property Policy and Management (CIPPM).

The supervisory team will also consist Dr. Tania Humphries, Associate Dean and Head of Department, Product Design and Engineering; and Dr. Phil Reeves, Managing Director and Principal Consultant, Econolyst Ltd.

What does the funded studentship include?

Funded candidates will receive a maintenance grant of £14,000 (unless otherwise specified) per annum, to cover their living expenses and have their fees waived for 36 months. In addition, research costs, including field work and conference attendance, will be met.

Funded Studentships are open to both UK/EU and International students unless otherwise specified.

Eligibility criteria

Candidates for funded PhD studentship must demonstrate outstanding qualities and be motivated to complete a PhD in 3 years.

All candidates must satisfy the University’s minimum doctoral entry criteria for studentships of an honours degree at Upper Second Class (2.1) and/or an appropriate Masters degree. An IELTS (Academic) score of 6.5 minimum (or equivalent) is essential for candidates for whom English is not their first language.

In addition to satisfying basic entry criteria, BU will look closely at the qualities, skills and background of each candidate and what they can bring to their chosen research project in order to ensure successful and timely completion.

For details on how to apply please visit https://research.bournemouth.ac.uk/pgr/funded-phd-studentships-in-the-media-school/

Closing Date

The first call for applications will close on 12^th March 2015.