PhD Projects (x3) - North West Centre for Advanced Manufacturing 2 (NWCAM2)

Summary

Ulster University invites applications for three funded PhD studentships as part of the NWCAM2 (North West Centre for Advanced Manufacturing 2), a €9.98 million cross border project which is supported by PEACEPLUS, a programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB) involving a range of partner organisations.

NWCAM2 is an initiative seeking to help small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) in the health and life sciences (H&LS) sector to embed and accelerate sustainable manufacturing in their businesses.

Integrated research in this programme will generate evidence-based guidance for SME technology adoption, establish collaborative frameworks between industry and academia, and deliver practical roadmaps for transitioning towards sustainable and competitive manufacturing pathways.

This opportunity will help you build an unmatched network and gain practical expertise that makes you invaluable in both academic and industrial careers.

PhD 1: Digital Manufacturing for H&LS Production explores computational design, Industry 4.0 integration, digital twins, and data-driven optimization to enhance manufacturing efficiency. Working closely with the NWCAM2 companies, this project aims to reduce waste, embed sustainability and enable real-time quality assurance for the H&LS sector.

PhD 2: Additive Manufacturing for H&LS Applications investigates scalable 3D printing technologies for customized products in the H&LS sector. Working with the NWCAM2 companies this project will address, where appropriate, the investigation of the application of new materials and processes, regulatory pathways, material qualification, and production economics for SME-scale operations.

PhD 3: Sustainable Materials and Circular Design for the H&LS sector investigates the development of alternative biopolymer materials for the L&HS sector. Working with the NWCAM2 companies to understand their specific product requirements, the research will focus on characterising and understanding the fundamental and applied aspects of biopolymers using a “from source to application approach” – this will initially determine the possibility of biopolymer formulations from alternative sustainable sources, designing around biodegradable devices and determining the overall lifecycle including carbon “passport” (determining the effect on associated standards/regulations and product contracts/sales).

The project will involve the implementation of design/monitoring tools to ensure safe and complete disassembly/degradation of device at end-of-life.

Funded by the European Union through the PEACEPLUS Programme.

Essential criteria

Applicants should hold, or expect to obtain, a First or Upper Second Class Honours Degree in a subject relevant to the proposed area of study.

We may also consider applications from those who hold equivalent qualifications, for example, a Lower Second Class Honours Degree plus a Master’s Degree with Distinction.

In exceptional circumstances, the University may consider a portfolio of evidence from applicants who have appropriate professional experience which is equivalent to the learning outcomes of an Honours degree in lieu of academic qualifications.

• Sound understanding of subject area as evidenced by a comprehensive research proposal

Desirable Criteria

If the University receives a large number of applicants for the project, the following desirable criteria may be applied to shortlist applicants for interview.

• Masters at 65%
• Work experience relevant to the proposed project
• Publications - peer-reviewed

Equal Opportunities

The University is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applicants from all sections of the community, particularly from those with disabilities.

Appointment will be made on merit.

Funding and eligibility

This project is funded by:

• SEUPB

Cross-border project supported by the European Union’s PEACEPLUS Programme and managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB).

This scholarship will cover tuition fees and provide a maintenance allowance of £20,669 per annum for three years (subject to satisfactory academic performance).  A Research Training Support Grant (RTSG)  is also available per annum.

To be eligible for these scholarships, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Be a UK National, or
• Have settled status, or
• Have pre-settled status, or
• Have indefinite leave to remain or enter, or
• be an Irish National

Applicants should also meet the residency criteria which requires that they have lived in the EEA, Switzerland, the UK or Gibraltar for at least the three years preceding the start date of the research degree programme.

Applicants who already hold a doctoral degree or who have been registered on a programme of research leading to the award of a doctoral degree on a full-time basis for more than one year (or part-time equivalent) are NOT eligible to apply for an award.

Due consideration should be given to financing your studies.