PhD Studentship: Development of Bio‑based Prepregs for Sustainable Composite Structures

Start date: 1^st October 2026

The University of Nottingham is seeking an outstanding and highly motivated candidate for a fully funded PhD studentship focused on the development of next‑generation bio‑based composite materials. This exciting project is delivered in partnership with SHD Composite Materials Ltd, a leading UK prepreg manufacturer, and offers a unique opportunity to work at the interface of advanced materials engineering, sustainable manufacturing, and industrial innovation.

Poly‑furfuryl alcohol (PFA) resins, derived from agricultural by‑products, are emerging as one of the most promising sustainable alternatives to conventional epoxy systems. Their excellent thermal stability and favourable fire, smoke and toxicity performance make them strong candidates for safety‑critical applications in aerospace, rail, automotive and battery technologies. However, current PFA systems suffer from brittleness, moisture‑related defects and narrow processing windows, limiting their wider adoption. This PhD will address these challenges through a combination of experimental materials science, advanced characterisation and AI‑assisted modelling.

Working within the Composites Research Group, you will develop a digital twin of the PFA cure process, combining mechanistic modelling with neural‑network‑based prediction of complex behaviours such as void formation and brittleness. In parallel, you will explore formulation and processing strategies to improve toughness, reduce embodied energy and eliminate the need for cold‑storage. The project includes four integrated work packages spanning moisture‑management strategies, toughening mechanisms, resin ageing and tack behaviour, and AI‑driven cure‑kinetics optimisation.

You will have access to world‑class facilities, including advanced imaging at the Nanoscale and Microscale Research Centre, bespoke tack‑testing equipment, and state‑of‑the‑art composite manufacturing laboratories. A three‑month placement at SHD Composite Materials will provide hands‑on experience with industrial prepreg production, specialist polymer characterisation equipment and direct involvement in manufacturing trials.

The successful applicant will have a strong background in engineering, materials science, chemistry or a related discipline, with enthusiasm for experimental research and computational modelling. Excellent communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively with academic and industrial partners are essential.

This studentship offers an enhanced stipend of £26,780 per year for Home students, plus full tuition fees and additional support for placement travel. Applications from exceptional International students with strong research track records are welcome, but funding restrictions apply. This opportunity provides an exceptional platform for a career in advanced composites.

Please send your CV and supporting statement to: lee.harper@nottingham.ac.uk

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