PhD Studentship: Novel Electromagnetic Sensing Arrays for Complex Materials and Structures

The project:

Electromagnetic (EM) sensing is on the brink of a step-change. Once limited by computation and data-processing power, EM sensing is now being transformed by advances in high-performance computing and machine learning—unlocking new possibilities for precision metrology and non-destructive evaluation (NDE) in modern industry and healthcare.

This PhD will push the boundaries of next-generation EM sensing. You will design innovative sensing systems and advanced data-processing methods to evaluate cutting-edge materials and structures, including carbon-fibre composites and complex, generatively designed metal parts produced by additive manufacturing.

You will join Dr Hughes’s EM Sensing team within Bristol’s world-leading Ultrasonics and Non-Destructive Testing (UNDT) Laboratory, with access to exceptional facilities such as the National Composites Centre and the Isambard AI supercomputing platform.

The project sits at the heart of a major UK-wide collaboration across five leading EM research groups and more than 25 industrial partners. This means regular engagement with industry, cross-institution teamwork, and opportunities to contribute to research with real-world impact.

Throughout the PhD, you will gain expertise in finite element modelling, electronic control and instrumentation, machine learning, experimental methods, and advanced signal processing. You will also build strong skills in collaborative research, problem-solving, and scientific communication.

This is a rare opportunity to help define the future of EM NDE—and to contribute to technologies that will shape the next generation of industrial technologies.

How to apply:

Prior to submitting an online application, you will need to contact the project supervisor to discuss.

Online applications are made at http://www.bris.ac.uk/pg-howtoapply. Please select PROGRAMME on the Programme Choice page. You will be prompted to enter details of the studentship in the Funding and Research Details sections of the form.

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