Location
University of Nottingham

Hours
Full-time, 4-year PhD programme

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
This 4-year enhanced stipend PhD studentship is offered within the Digital Metal Centre for Doctoral Training at the University of Nottingham, in partnership with Rolls-Royce. The project focuses on the development of advanced thermal barrier coatings (TBCs) for aero-engine components, addressing critical challenges related to coating degradation caused by extreme environments and external contaminants such as Calcium Magnesium Alumina and Silicates (CMAS). Leveraging material science, coatings technologies, and advanced thermal spray deposition systems, the research aims to develop novel protective chemistries that can be applied in situ to protect TBC systems. The project integrates advanced digital technologies to evaluate coating degradation and environmental contaminants, and employs bespoke continuum robotic systems to demonstrate the feasibility of in-situ coating application. This work bridges fundamental material science with industrial implementation, contributing to sustainable aerospace technologies. Coatings will be manufactured using plasma spray and mini-combustion flame spray techniques, characterized by SEM/EBSD, and tested under burner rig and furnace thermal cycling conditions. As part of the CDT cohort, students will benefit from tailored courses, mentoring, career support, and conference opportunities.

Experience
Applicants should have a strong background in materials science, mechanical engineering, manufacturing, chemistry, or related disciplines. Experience with experimental research and coating technologies is advantageous.

About you
You are motivated, detail-oriented, and passionate about advanced materials and aerospace applications. You are eager to engage in interdisciplinary research combining material science, digital technologies, and robotics. Strong analytical and experimental skills are essential.

Qualifications
Applicants must hold at least a UK MEng 2.1 class degree or equivalent 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.