PhD Studentship: Cracks and Code: From High-Fidelity Simulations to Fast Scientific Machine Learning Models

About the project:

Cracks and Code: From High-Fidelity Simulations to Fast Scientific Machine Learning Models
Supervisor: Dr Emmanouil Kakouris, University of Warwick

Are you ready for your next challenge?

If you’re looking to move beyond a traditional PhD and gain real-world experience alongside world-leading research, this could be the opportunity for you.

The HetSys Centre for Doctoral Training at the University of Warwick is offering an exciting PhD studentship that puts you at the intersection of cutting-edge modelling and industry impact.

A project for the curious

When metals experience extreme events, such as shock waves, high-speed impacts, or rapid deformation, they can fail suddenly in ways that remain difficult to predict. In this project, you will investigate how cracks initiate and grow in metals under these high-rate conditions. You will use large-scale simulations (both atomistic and continuum) to study how damage forms and localises, and then develop scientific machine-learning models that can reproduce these processes far more efficiently.

Why this PhD is different

This isn’t just about writing a thesis. It’s about developing the skills, experience, and confidence to shape your future career.

• Work closely with a leading industry partner, AWE-NST, applying your research to real challenges
• Gain hands-on experience that enhances your employability
• Be part of a vibrant, supportive cohort of doctoral researchers
• Develop both deep technical expertise and transferable skills in communication, teamwork and problem-solving

Funded to support your focus

• A tax-free stipend to support your living costs
• Full tuition fees paid for the duration of the programme

Your research, your impact

You’ll tackle meaningful research questions that matter beyond academia – contributing to solutions that industry genuinely needs. Alongside academic supervision from Warwick, you’ll benefit from industry insight, mentorship and exposure to real-world applications of your work.

Career-ready from the start

HetSys is designed to prepare you for life after your PhD, whether that’s in industry, academia or beyond.

Our structured training programme will help you:

• Build advanced computational and analytical skills
• Understand how research translates into practice
• Develop professional networks and industry connections
• Grow in confidence as an independent researcher

Who we’re looking for

We’re looking for students excited by the idea of using advanced modelling and simulation to solve complex, real‑world problems, HetSys offers the perfect environment to push boundaries and make a difference.

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