PhD Studentship: Computational Modelling of Sustainable Alloys Loughborough University in United Kingdom

[The studentship is for 3.5 years and provides a tax-free stipend of £19,237 per annum (24/25 rate) plus tuition fees at the UK rate. Excellent International candidates are eligible for a full international fee waiver from the University, but no more than 30% of the studentships funded by this grant can be awarded to International candidates.]

This PhD studentship at Loughborough University offers an exciting opportunity to advance the science of sustainable alloys through computational modelling. The project addresses the environmental and economic challenges posed by the production and recycling of primary steel and aluminium, focusing on the control of alloy composition and microstructure to mitigate defects and enhance recyclability. By employing computational methods such as molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, the student will investigate the atomic-scale effects of minor alloying additions on second phase formation and growth, particularly their influence on solid/liquid interfacial free energy.

The research is part of the EPSRC-funded Artificial Intelligence X-ray Imaging for Sustainable Metal Manufacturing (AIXISuMM) project, a collaborative initiative involving Loughborough University, The University of Oxford, and the Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC). The successful candidate will work within a multidisciplinary team, with opportunities to collaborate with researchers at partner institutions and to validate computational models using advanced electron microscopy and x-ray techniques.

The studentship is fully funded for 3.5 years, providing a tax-free stipend of £19,237 per annum (24/25 rate) and covering tuition fees at the UK rate. Outstanding international candidates may be eligible for a full international fee waiver, though only up to 30% of studentships can be awarded to international applicants due to UKRI funding rules.

Applicants should hold, or expect to achieve, at least a 2:1 honours degree (or equivalent) in a relevant subject such as physical sciences or engineering. Experience with computer simulation or programming is advantageous. All candidates must meet the university's minimum English language requirements.

To apply, submit your application online via the Loughborough University website, selecting 'Department of Materials' as the programme and quoting reference number MP-JC-2522. Ensure all required supporting documents are included to avoid processing delays. The application deadline is 14 February 2027.