Engineering Sustainable composites for Green Transport

Summary

This PhD project offers an exciting opportunity to develop next-generation biocomposites made from natural fibres and bio-resins, combining renewable materials with advanced processing and computer-aided design/simulation.

The research aims to create high-performance, sustainable composites with tailored mechanical and dynamic properties suitable for use across aerospace, transport, renewable energy, and marine sectors.

You will explore how advanced manufacturing techniques such as dual-resin infusion, thermal-gradient curing, and hybrid natural fibre architecture can be used to achieve functionally graded structures (materials engineered to provide strength and durability where needed while reducing weight and environmental impact).

Alongside manufacturing, you will investigate how surface and material characteristics (such as roughness, hydrophobicity, surface energy, and material damping) influence the vibration and shock response, and long-term dynamic performance of the system.

This will involve both experimental testing and the development of simplified computational models to link design parameters with dynamic behaviour and functional performance.

The project builds on Ulster University’s extensive experience in advanced composites and sustainable materials, supported by state-of-the-art facilities within the School of Engineering, the Northern Ireland Advanced Composites and Engineering Centre (NIACE), and the Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre (AMIC).

You will work alongside experienced researchers and engage with industrial collaborators including AMIC, Athena Blue Innovation, and Juno Composites, who will provide technical input, access to facilities, and insight into commercial applications.

This interdisciplinary project will equip you with advanced skills in biocomposite processing, materials design, dynamic analysis, and sustainability assessment, preparing you for a research or industrial career at the forefront of advanced manufacturing and green materials innovation.

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.

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.

• First Class Honours (1st) Degree
• 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:

• Department for the Economy (DfE)

Our fully funded PhD scholarships will cover tuition fees and provide a maintenance allowance of £21,000 (approximately) per annum for three years* (subject to satisfactory academic performance).  A Research Training Support Grant (RTSG) of £900 per annum is also available.

These scholarships, funded via the Department for the Economy (DfE), are open to applicants worldwide, regardless of residency or domicile.

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.

*Part time PhD scholarships may be available to home candidates, based on 0.5 of the full time rate, and will require a six year registration period.

Due consideration should be given to financing your studies.