At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct impactful research on sustainable composite structures and innovative manufacturing solutions.
- Company: Join the NCC and University of Bristol in shaping the future of the composite industry.
- Benefits: Receive a generous stipend, fee waiver, and tailored professional development support.
- Other info: Exciting opportunities for career growth in both industry and academia.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of sustainable engineering and make a real difference in the industry.
- Qualifications: Must hold a 2:1 MEng or equivalent in engineering, physics, or chemistry.
The predicted salary is between 27805 - 27805 £ per year.
As a part of NCC’s continued effort to generate a sufficient supply of skilled people to the UK composite industry, the Centre has partnered with the University of Bristol and University of Nottingham to offer projects for doctoral studies starting in September 2026, with a focus on the creation of sustainable and efficient solutions for the design of composite structures.
Within this framework, NCC is offering two Engineering Doctorate (EngD) scholarships, where the students will spend up to 75% of their time conducting research on NCC premises. The Centre of Doctoral Training (CDT) was launched in 2024 and follows on from five previous successful CDTs in Bristol Composites Institute (BCI). The training will focus on you becoming a future leader, with doctoral level qualifications, and the skills and expertise to address the design, manufacture and assurance of composite products.
You will follow a taught programme that provides an in-depth knowledge of composite materials and their use, with a focus on sustainability and the circular economy, while conducting cutting‑edge industrially relevant research. A structured professional development programme tailored to individual aspirations will support your future career either in industry or academia.
We are seeking highly motivated and committed individuals with an eye on the future, who are interested in conducting stimulating, impactful, essential, and industrially relevant research, and have a passion for finding sustainable solutions. There are many challenges in understanding the behaviour of composite materials and structures, so the projects seek to develop new manufacturing routes, design concepts, analysis procedures and development of new solutions.
Scholarship Details- Type of award: Engineering Doctorate
- Research focus areas: Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Design Engineering
- Research group: Bristol Composites Institute
- An enhanced stipend of £27,805 for 2026/27, a fee waiver and generous financial support for research and training for the successful candidates.
- Duration: 4 years
- Eligibility: Home/permanent UK residents only subject to security clearance
- Start Date: September 2026
Applicants must hold/achieve a minimum a 2:1 MEng or merit at Masters level or equivalent in engineering, physics or chemistry. Applicants without a master's qualification may be considered on an exceptional basis, provided they hold a first-class undergraduate degree. Please note, acceptance will also depend on evidence of readiness to pursue a research degree and performance at interview.
Closing Date30th July 2026
Projects- Project 1 – EngD on Artificial Intelligence for Systems Engineering (supervised by Andy Patterson).
- Project 2 – EngD on Adaptive Manufacturing (supervised by Jon Butt).
To apply please submit a personal statement, outlining your experience and why you are interested in the EngD project, your CV and transcript of results. Please include the project title in the project description field and select EngD in Composites Manufacture. Please enter Professor Janice Barton the Director of the CDT as the 2nd supervisor and indicate that the funding is provided by the CDT in Innovation for Sustainable Composites Engineering.
For more information on other EngD and PhD projects with the University of Bristol please visit FindAPhD: Opportunities in the EPSRC Centre in Doctoral Training (CDT) in Innovation for Sustainable Composites Engineering at University of Bristol.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Engineering Doctorate Bristol Composites Institute & NCC
✨Get Involved in Aerospace Communities
Dive into aerospace forums and communities like the Institute of Engineering and Technology. Get your name out there by engaging in discussions or attending events. This can really help us showcase our passion and dedication for the field!
✨Utilise University Career Services
If you're still studying, hit up your university's career centre. They often have connections with aerospace companies looking for trainees, and they can help us polish our interview skills or tidy up our application strategies before we jump into the field.
✨Show Off Your Projects
Create a portfolio showcasing any relevant projects or designs you've worked on, such as model aircraft or research papers. Sharing these on platforms like LinkedIn or even specialised aerospace forums can grab the attention of hiring managers at companies like Materials Engineering.
✨Apply Directly Through Our Website
Don’t forget to check out the opportunities on our website! Applying directly for the trainee position at Materials Engineering gives us a better chance of standing out, plus you'll skip the middleman and get noticed by the right people. Let's do this!
We think you need these skills to ace Engineering Doctorate Bristol Composites Institute & NCC
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Technical Skills:When crafting your CV, focus on highlighting any relevant technical skills specific to aerospace engineering. Make sure to mention any software tools you're proficient in, like CAD programs or simulation software, as these are super important in our field. Don't forget to include any projects or coursework that demonstrate your understanding of aerospace concepts!
Demonstrate Your Passion for Aviation:In your cover letter, let your enthusiasm for aerospace shine through! Talk about any experience you've had that fuels your interest—whether it's a personal project, a club at university, or even a visit to an airshow. We're looking for trainees who are as passionate about aviation as we are at Materials Engineering!
Include Relevant Certifications:If you've got any certifications related to aerospace or engineering, be sure to highlight them in your application. This could be anything from safety training to specific engineering courses related to aerodynamics or propulsion. They can really boost your credibility as a trainee in this specialised field!
Keep It Clear and Concise:As a trainee, your application should be straightforward and to the point. Avoid jargon and focus on what makes you an ideal fit for the role. Make it easy for us at Materials Engineering to see why you'd be an awesome addition to the team by keeping your writing clear and organised. Remember, we appreciate a good structure!
How to prepare for a job interview at Materials Engineering
✨Brush Up on Your Basics
As a trainee in aerospace engineering, make sure you nail down the fundamental concepts of aerodynamics and propulsion. You might get hit with technical questions that assess your knowledge of these areas, so revise your lecture notes and key textbooks to shine!
✨Show Off Your Projects
If you’ve worked on relevant projects, like model aircraft or CAD designs, don’t hold back! Prepare to discuss your hands-on experiences and how they relate to aerospace engineering. It’s a great way to show you’re not just book-smart but practical, too!
✨Get Familiar with Software Tools
Depending on the specifics of the position at Materials Engineering, you might be asked about software like MATLAB or CATIA. Brush up on these tools so you can confidently discuss your familiarity or any experience you’ve had using them in your coursework or personal projects.
✨Highlight Your Eagerness to Learn
As a trainee, your potential is what matters most! Be prepared to talk about what you’re hoping to learn during your time at Materials Engineering. This shows your motivation and willingness to grow, which is key for a role that’s all about taking the first steps in your career!
