PhD Studentship: Tailoring surface chemistry of Additive Manufacture Lattices

Project details:

Surface features are important in additively manufactured parts. While additive manufacturing technology has made great strides in the realisation of complex shapes, topologies and tailored metallurgy-chemistry of porous structures, it still lacks surface finishing quality. 
 
This project will investigate the science behind surface finishing and the control of metal porosity engineered components with applications in the transport, catalysis and bioengineering industries. 
 
The research will focus on wet chemical processes and the study of chemical reactions on the component's surface. We will create a working framework that includes both experimental and modelling prototypes, including AI/ML tools to assist with the large number of variables involved. 
 
This project is seeking candidates with a profound interest in inorganic chemistry, in both experimental and modelling applications. We are looking for candidates who are also interested in the analytical and numerical aspects of the work to support the experimental activity. The candidate will be joining a multidisciplinary team in a lab where we design, make and validate materials and structures. 
 
This PhD will expose the successful candidate to a myriad of new techniques and much sought-after skills demanded by industry, including the following: 
 

• Design of experiments, data harvesting/analysis and interpretation of results to derive insight 

• Development of novel processing techniques 

• Modelling techniques that can inform the direction of experimental activity 

• Physical, mechanical and materials characterisation techniques 

• Data-driven approaches to aid process parameter optimisation 

• Management (including self-management) techniques, scaffolded by the ‘Transition Zone’ ethos that supports researchers’ professional development. 

Entry requirements: 

A 2:1 in BSc Chemistry or an MSc in any applied chemistry degree, including inorganic chemistry, chemical physics, analytical methods, simulation and modelling of chemical reactions. 

English language requirements: 

Applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Further details are available on the International website. 

Funding information: 

The studentship is for 3 years and provides a tax-free stipend of £20,780 per annum for the duration of the studentship plus university tuition fees. 

How to Apply: 

All applications should be made online. Under ‘Campus’, please select 'Loughborough' and select 'Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering' under ‘Programme’. Please quote the advertised reference number, ‘FP-CTS-2025’, under the ‘Finance’ section of your application. Please note that 1 January 2026 will be the earliest start date for international applicants. 

Applications must include a personal statement, up-to-date curriculum vitae (CV), details of two referees (one from your highest degree qualification), and certified certificates and transcripts for all completed degree programmes. Submission of a research proposal is not essential but may strengthen your application. 

The following selection criteria will be used by academic schools to help them make a decision on your application. 

Incomplete applications received after the closing date may not be considered for interview. Early application is strongly encouraged as we reserve the right to interview and withdraw the advert ahead of the closing date. 

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