At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a cutting-edge research team developing advanced coatings for orthopaedic implants.
- Company: The University of Nottingham, a leader in engineering research.
- Benefits: Full-time PhD positions with funding from Horizon Europe and international collaboration.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in healthcare through innovative materials engineering research.
- Qualifications: Master’s degree in Materials Engineering and familiarity with bioactive glasses or titanate coatings.
- Other info: Exciting opportunity for career growth in a dynamic, international research environment.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 ÂŁ per year.
Applications are invited for 2 PhD positions ("Doctoral Candidates") to be funded by the Horizon Europe Marie Skłodowska-Curie doctoral network “CUSTOM” (Customized Porous Structures and Advanced Testing for Orthopaedic Implants). This Doctoral Network is a collaboration with an extensive European Network of academic and industry institutions funded by the Horizon Europe Programme of the European Commission.
At University of Nottingham, there are two PhD positions available:
- DC7: Development and Optimisation of Bioactive Glass Coatings on Titanium Implants
- DC8: Advanced Titanate Coatings for Porous Titanium Implants
Key requirements for these roles are:
- Familiarity with bioactive glasses and thermal coating processes (for DC7) or familiarity with producing and characterising titanate coatings (for DC8)
- A background in Materials Engineering
- Ability to communicate and present research
- Proficient in English and able to collaborate extensively with industrial and academic parties in regular meetings and work visits
Candidates must have a master’s degree in Materials Engineering or related field. Applicants need to fully respect three eligibility criteria (to be demonstrated in the Europass CV).
Early-stage researchers (ESR) are those who are, at the time of recruitment by the host, in the first four years (full-time equivalent) of their research careers. This is measured from the date when they obtained the degree which formally entitles them to embark on a doctorate, either in the country in which the degree was obtained or in the country in which the research training is provided, irrespective of whether or not a doctorate was envisaged.
Conditions of international mobility of researchers: Researchers are required to undertake transnational mobility (i.e. move from one country to another) when taking up the appointment. At the time of selection by the host organisation, researchers must not have resided or carried out their main activity (work, studies, etc.) in the country of their host organisation for more than 12 months in the 3 years immediately prior to their recruitment. Short stays, such as holidays, are not taken into account.
English language: Network fellows (ESRs) must demonstrate that their ability to understand and express themselves in both written and spoken English is sufficiently high for them to derive the full benefit from the network training.
These are full-time positions and will be offered on a fixed-term basis, financed for a period of three years starting September/October 2026.
Marie Sklodowska-Curie Doctoral Candidate (Fixed-Term) employer: The University of Nottingham
Contact Detail:
The University of Nottingham Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Marie Sklodowska-Curie Doctoral Candidate (Fixed-Term)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current PhD candidates or faculty members 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
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to your research interests. We recommend doing mock interviews with friends or mentors to boost your confidence and refine your answers.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for materials engineering! When you get the chance to present your research ideas, make sure to highlight how they align with the goals of the CUSTOM network. This will help you stand out.
✨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’re always here to help if you have any questions during the process.
We think you need these skills to ace Marie Sklodowska-Curie Doctoral Candidate (Fixed-Term)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to highlight your experience in Materials Engineering and any relevant projects. We want to see how your background aligns with the specific requirements for the PhD positions.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should tell us why you're passionate about this research area. Share your motivation for applying and how you can contribute to the CUSTOM network. Keep it engaging and personal!
Showcase Your Skills: Don’t forget to emphasise your familiarity with bioactive glasses or titanate coatings, depending on which position you’re applying for. We love seeing candidates who can clearly communicate their technical skills and research experience.
Apply Through Our Website: Make sure to submit your application through our official website. It’s the best way to ensure we receive all your materials correctly and can review them promptly. We can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at The University of Nottingham
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of bioactive glasses and thermal coating processes, especially if you're applying for DC7. For DC8, be ready to discuss titanate coatings in detail. The interviewers will want to see that you have a solid grasp of the technical aspects relevant to the role.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since the role requires collaboration with both academic and industrial parties, practice articulating your research ideas clearly. Prepare to explain complex concepts in simple terms, as this will demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively in a team setting.
✨Familiarise Yourself with the Consortium
Do some homework on the CUSTOM network and its partners. Understanding their work and how it relates to your research can give you an edge. It shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you ask insightful questions during the interview.
✨Prepare for Mobility Questions
Since transnational mobility is a requirement, be ready to discuss your plans for relocating and how you’ll adapt to a new environment. Highlight any previous experiences you've had living or working abroad, as this will reassure them of your flexibility and readiness for the role.
