At a Glance
- Tasks: Transform waste leather into low-carbon composite textiles using digital design and data-driven modelling.
- Company: Imperial College London, in collaboration with Gen Phoenix Ltd and the National Physical Laboratory.
- Benefits: Gain hands-on experience, training in advanced materials testing, and contribute to sustainable innovation.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team focused on revolutionising the future of textile manufacturing.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on sustainable fashion and circular economy through cutting-edge research.
- Qualifications: Passion for sustainable materials, composites, and data science; relevant academic background preferred.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 € per year.
This project, primarily based at Imperial College London, is part of cohort 3 of the EPSRC CDT in Developing National Capability for Materials 4.0, with the Henry Royce Institute. Leather and fashion supply chains generate large volumes of waste, much of which is still downcycled, incinerated, or sent to landfill. At the same time, leather is a remarkable natural material, with a complex fibrous structure that gives it strength, flexibility, durability and a distinctive feel.
This PhD will explore how waste leather can be transformed into the next generation of low‑carbon composite textiles using digital design, advanced characterisation and data‑driven modelling. The project will be carried out in collaboration with Gen Phoenix Ltd, a leader in leather waste upcycling, and the National Physical Laboratory (NPL), with world‑leading expertise in surface characterisation. Gen Phoenix already re‑manufactures leather waste into new sheet materials, but designing products with the right balance of strength, flexibility, surface quality and durability still requires significant trial and error.
This project will develop a smarter, more predictive approach, helping to understand how different waste streams and processing routes influence the final material performance. The PhD candidate will investigate the structure and properties of recycled leather materials, build useful datasets, and use digital tools to guide the design of improved products. The aim is to create a framework that can suggest promising material formulations and processing conditions more quickly, reducing waste, accelerating product development and supporting more circular manufacturing.
Candidate interested in sustainable materials, composites, circular economy, digital manufacturing, materials characterisation and/or data science. Will receive training in materials testing, imaging, data analysis, modelling and industrial translation, while working at the interface between academic research, national measurement capability and industrial innovation. Project focuses on waste leather but the broader approach could be applied to many other recycled fibrous materials, offering an opportunity to contribute to low‑carbon materials innovation and shape the future of sustainable composite manufacturing.
PhD - Digital Design of Low-Carbon Leather Composite Textiles from Fashion and Industrial Waste employer: National Physical Laboratory (NPL)
At Imperial College London, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that fosters innovation and sustainability in the heart of one of the world's leading research institutions. Our collaborative work culture encourages interdisciplinary partnerships, providing PhD candidates with unparalleled opportunities for professional growth and development in cutting-edge fields like sustainable materials and digital design. With access to world-class resources and a commitment to advancing circular manufacturing, you will be part of a transformative journey that not only enhances your career but also contributes significantly to environmental sustainability.
Contact Detail:
National Physical Laboratory (NPL) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land PhD - Digital Design of Low-Carbon Leather Composite Textiles from Fashion and Industrial Waste
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to professionals in the sustainable materials and textile industries. Attend events, webinars, or even local meetups. We can’t stress enough how valuable personal connections can be in landing that dream PhD position.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your passion! When you get the chance to chat with potential supervisors or collaborators, make sure to express your enthusiasm for low-carbon materials and digital design. We want to see that fire in your belly!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by diving deep into the project details. Familiarise yourself with Gen Phoenix Ltd and the National Physical Laboratory’s work. We want you to demonstrate that you’re not just a fit for the role, but that you’re genuinely excited about contributing to their mission.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace PhD - Digital Design of Low-Carbon Leather Composite Textiles from Fashion and Industrial Waste
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Sustainability:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for sustainable materials and circular economy shine through. We want to see how your interests align with our mission to innovate in low-carbon composite textiles.
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for this specific role. Highlight relevant experiences and skills that relate to digital design, materials characterisation, and data science. We love seeing how you connect your background to what we do!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured writing that gets straight to the heart of your qualifications and motivations. Avoid jargon unless it’s necessary, and make sure your passion comes across!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at National Physical Laboratory (NPL)
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you dive deep into the specifics of low-carbon materials and leather composites. Familiarise yourself with the latest research and innovations in sustainable textiles, as well as the role of digital design in this field. This will not only show your passion but also your commitment to the project.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Prepare to discuss your experience with data analysis, materials testing, and any relevant projects you've worked on. Bring examples that highlight your ability to work at the intersection of academic research and industrial application. This is your chance to shine!
✨Ask Smart Questions
Think of insightful questions about the project, such as how Gen Phoenix Ltd approaches upcycling or what challenges they face in material performance. This demonstrates your genuine interest and helps you understand the role better.
✨Emphasise Collaboration
Since this project involves working with various partners, highlight your teamwork skills. Share experiences where you successfully collaborated with others, especially in interdisciplinary settings. This will show that you're ready to contribute to a dynamic team environment.
