PhD Studentship: Sustainable Recycled Textiles for Engineering Applications

Worldwide demand for the apparel industry keeps growing while triggering an environmental impact on human health. The textile industry accounts for around 10% of global greenhouse gas emissions. This PhD project aims to investigate sustainable materials and techniques, including 3D printers, in textile industries focusing on reducing air pollution. This includes experimentally and numerically investigating emission formation during the printing process. The research team will also regularly liaise with other academic and industrial partners associated with this project to shape the transition to a clean and sustainable net-zero emissions environment. The candidate will be strongly encouraged to present and publish work in national/international conferences and scientific journals. The position will also offer opportunities to engage in teaching activities in the school of engineering.

Person Specification:

Essential:

• A master’s degree in a relevant discipline (Textile Engineering, Mechanical, Manufacturing, Chemistry, Material Sciences), ideally with a 1st class or at least a 2.1 degree (or non-UK equivalent);
• To have met the University of Birmingham English Language requirements (e.g. IELTS 6.0 with no less than 5.5 in any band) by the point of application

Desirable:

• Knowledge in Net-Zero emission, sources of air pollution, indoor air quality, emissions speciation and characterisation, 3D printing
• Experience in performing experimental work, collecting data and analysing research findings
• Interest in machine learning, artificial intelligence and programming techniques
• Experience in performing numerical simulations
• Experience in CAD software packages (e.g. in SolidWorks, Fusion 360)

How to apply

Eligible applicants should first send an expression of interest to Dr Omid Doustdar (o.doustdar@bham.ac.uk), including:

• 200 words cover letter on how your research interest aligns with this position
• CV including your academic and work experience with the names of two referees

The applications will be reviewed, and the supervisory team will invite the promising short-listed applicants for interviews. After the interview, the successful candidate will be instructed to apply online via the University of Birmingham website.

Funding notes:

This research project is awaiting funding, and the best applicant will be awarded the funding. However, self-funded PhD students are encouraged to contact Dr Omid Doustdar at the earliest opportunity.

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