At a Glance
- Tasks: Research non-conventional manufacturing processes for aerospace components with real-world impact.
- Company: University of Nottingham, collaborating with Rolls-Royce in advanced manufacturing.
- Benefits: Access to cutting-edge technology, bespoke training, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Supportive environment focused on community, equality, diversity, and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a difference in sustainability while working on innovative aerospace projects.
- Qualifications: Strong degree in Mechanical Engineering or related fields; hands-on research motivation.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Institution: University of Nottingham – Faculty of Engineering, Advanced Manufacturing Technology Research Group
Location: UK
Reference: ENG309
Closing Date: Open until filled
Project Overview
This PhD focuses on non-conventional electrophysical and laser-based manufacturing processes to restore and remanufacture aerospace gas turbine components, in partnership with Rolls‑Royce. Key goals include:
- Restoring thermal barrier coatings and small-scale engineered features on blades, guide vanes, and compressors.
- Investigating process–material interactions in coatings, substrates, and electrophysical/laser processes.
- Exploring plasma and process-specific phenomena for localized material removal and deposition.
- Translating research into scalable, deployable solutions, with miniaturized on-wing demonstrations.
The project addresses sustainability challenges by extending the life of critical components, reducing reliance on virgin critical materials, and enabling circular manufacturing practices.
Candidate Profile
- Strong first degree (1st or 2:1) in:
- Mechanical Engineering
- Manufacturing Engineering
- Materials Science / Metallurgy
- Motivated by hands‑on, industry‑focused research with real‑world impact.
- Interest in non‑conventional manufacturing (e.g., EDM, laser processing, coatings).
- Comfortable working at the interface of academia and industry.
Benefits & Environment
- Close collaboration with Rolls‑Royce and access to advanced EDM and laser systems.
- Supportive supervision with both academic and industrial expertise.
- Access to bespoke training, networking, and career development programs via the Researcher Academy.
- Funding sought post‑selection for home tuition fees and UKRI stipend.
- Strong emphasis on community, equality, diversity, and inclusion.
Contact: Alistair Speidel for further information and application details.
PhD Position in Mechanical Engineering in Nottingham employer: Polytechnicpositions
The University of Nottingham offers an exceptional environment for aspiring researchers in Mechanical Engineering, particularly through its collaboration with Rolls-Royce. With a strong focus on hands-on, industry-relevant research, the PhD position provides access to advanced manufacturing technologies and bespoke training opportunities, fostering both personal and professional growth within a supportive and inclusive community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land PhD Position in Mechanical Engineering in Nottingham
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current PhD students or faculty at the University of Nottingham. They can give you insider info about the programme and might even put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for hands-on research! When you get the chance to chat with potential supervisors, share your excitement about non-conventional manufacturing processes and how they can make a real-world impact.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of thermal barrier coatings and laser processing. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen and considered. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step!
We think you need these skills to ace PhD Position in Mechanical Engineering in Nottingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights your relevant experience in mechanical engineering and any hands-on projects you've worked on. We want to see how your skills align with the non-conventional manufacturing processes mentioned in the job description.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Tell us why you're passionate about this PhD position and how your background fits with our goals at the Advanced Manufacturing Technology Research Group. Be sure to mention your interest in sustainability and circular manufacturing practices.
Showcase Your Research Interests:In your application, don’t forget to highlight any specific research interests you have that relate to the project. We’re keen to know how you plan to contribute to restoring thermal barrier coatings or exploring plasma phenomena!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands and shows us you’re serious about joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Polytechnicpositions
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest trends in non-conventional manufacturing processes, especially those related to laser processing and coatings. Familiarise yourself with the specific technologies used by Rolls-Royce and be ready to discuss how your background in Mechanical Engineering or Materials Science aligns with their needs.
✨Show Your Passion
Demonstrate your enthusiasm for hands-on, industry-focused research. Share examples from your past experiences that highlight your motivation for working on real-world problems, particularly in aerospace applications. This will show them you're not just qualified, but genuinely excited about the work.
✨Prepare Questions
Think of insightful questions to ask during the interview. Inquire about the collaboration with Rolls-Royce, the specific challenges they face in restoring turbine components, or how they envision the future of sustainable manufacturing. This shows your interest and helps you gauge if the position is the right fit for you.
✨Emphasise Collaboration Skills
Since this role involves working at the interface of academia and industry, highlight any previous experiences where you've successfully collaborated with others. Discuss how you can contribute to a supportive environment that values community, equality, diversity, and inclusion, which is important to the institution.
