Location
University of Nottingham, Central London

Hours
Full Time - 4 years

Salary
Tax-free stipend of up to £26,780 per annum plus tuition fees at UK rates and a £4,000 research training support grant

About the Role
Applicants are invited to undertake a 4-year enhanced stipend PhD studentship within the Digital Metal Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT) at the University of Nottingham. This PhD programme, in partnership with Rolls-Royce, focuses on the development of advanced thermal barrier coatings (TBCs) for aero-engine components, addressing key challenges for next-generation TBCs used in critical parts such as Ni superalloy turbine blades. The project aims to develop novel protective chemistries that can be deposited in situ to protect TBC systems from degradation caused by environmental contaminants like Calcium Magnesium Alumina and Silicates (CMAS). Leveraging material science, coatings technologies, and advanced thermal spray deposition systems, the research will combine digital technologies to evaluate TBC degradation and environmental contaminants, developing advanced protective coatings to mitigate damage. The project also involves the use of bespoke continuum robotic systems to demonstrate the feasibility of in-situ coating application. This research bridges fundamental material science and industrial implementation, contributing to the sustainability of the aerospace industry through the development of intelligent, customizable protective coatings. Coatings will be manufactured using plasma spray and mini-combustion flame spray, examined via SEM/EBSD, and tested in burner rigs and furnace thermal cycling. As part of the CDT cohort, students will have access to tailored courses, mentoring, career support, and conference opportunities.

Experience
Applicants should have a strong background in materials, mechanical, manufacturing, chemistry, or related disciplines with relevant experimental research experience preferred.

About you
You are a motivated and enthusiastic researcher with a passion for advanced materials and coatings, able to work independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team. You have strong analytical skills and a commitment to advancing aerospace technology through innovative research.

Qualifications
The candidate must hold at least an equivalent of a UK MEng 2.1 class degree in materials, mechanical, manufacturing, chemistry, or a related discipline, with a minimum of 70% in the project element. This is an experimental research project based at the University of Nottingham.