PhD Studentship: Tailoring investment casting moulds for thin-walled castings

Overview:

Project Overview
Investment casting is an ancient yet vital manufacturing technique, especially in the aerospace sector where thin-walled, complex components are increasingly required for next-generation gas turbines. These geometries pose manufacturing challenges, particularly regarding heat transfer, microstructure evolution, and defect prevention.

Building on recent doctoral research, this project will further investigate the optical and thermophysical properties of ceramic moulds—critical for predicting heat flux during casting and improving microstructural integrity. The work will explore how variations in mould structure, porosity, and surface characteristics affect radiative heat transfer and casting performance. Phase-field modelling will also be used to simulate defect formation and solidification behaviour.

Industrial Collaboration
TPC Components, a leading Swedish foundry specialising in vacuum-cast superalloys for aerospace and energy sectors, will host experimental work and support process validation. The successful candidate will have opportunities to work at TPC’s facility in Hallstahammar, contributing directly to on-site trials and process enhancements. The company’s investment in R&D (6.8% of turnover in 2022) and material science expertise make it an ideal industrial partner.

Candidate Profile
We welcome applicants with a strong academic background (first or upper second-class honours degree or equivalent) in materials science, manufacturing, mechanical engineering, metallurgy, physics, chemistry, or related fields. Ideal candidates will be self-driven, eager to learn CFD tools (e.g. Flow-3D), and keen to develop both technical and communication skills.

Funding and Benefits
The studentship includes:

• Full tuition fees
• A tax-free bursary of up to £25,000/year
• Access to office, lab space, and specialist software
• Opportunities to attend international conferences (e.g., USA)
• Involvement in Cranfield’s Doctoral Network, providing training and networking across disciplines

Open to UK and international candidates, though funded international places are limited and highly competitive.

Why Cranfield?
Cranfield is a postgraduate-only university with a global reputation for industrially relevant research. The Sustainable Manufacturing Systems Centre leads pioneering work in resource-efficient production, digitalisation, and zero-carbon manufacturing. Our Doctoral Network offers a vibrant, collaborative environment, with cross-disciplinary support and professional development.

Key Details

• Application deadline: 30 July 2025
• Start date: 29 September 2025
• Duration: 4 years full-time
• Reference: SATM591
• Eligibility: UK, EU, and international applicants

How to apply

For further information please contact:      

Name: Professor Mark Jolly
Email:  m.r.jolly@cranfield.ac.uk
Phone: +44-(0)1234 758466

If you are eligible to apply for this studentship, please complete the online application form.

Website link: Please click the 'Apply' button above. 

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