The global shortage of clean water, compounded by pervasive microplastic pollution, is a pressing environmental and public health concern. Rapid population growth and industrial activities are intensifying demand, while pollution and climate change compromise freshwater resources. This PhD project aims to revolutionize drinking water treatment by leveraging additive manufacturing (AM) technologies to optimize reverse osmosis (RO) systems.The research will focus on designing and fabricating key RO components, such as membranes, feed spacers, and permeate spacers, using AM. Objectives include creating advanced membranes with enhanced permeability and fouling resistance, optimizing feed spacers to improve flow dynamics and microplastic capture, and developing durable permeate spacers. The integration of these AM-enhanced components will be tested at both laboratory and pilot scales to evaluate overall performance and efficiency, ensuring comprehensive contaminant removal and safeguarding public health.This project aims to bridge the gap between advanced manufacturing technologies and water treatment, providing a pathway to more efficient, sustainable, and scalable RO systems. By harnessing the design flexibility and precision of AM, this research will contribute to the development of next-generation water treatment technologies capable of addressing global drinking water shortages. Additionally, the project will explore the removal of microplastics from drinking water, ensuring comprehensive contaminant removal and safeguarding public health.Eligibility CriteriaA good first degree and Master’s in mechanical, chemical engineering (or relevant discipline) is essential.Motivated candidates with knowledge or interest in CAD software packages, additive manufacturing, materials characterisation, CFD, and experimentation are highly encouraged to apply.Applications will be considered based on the quality of the research proposal and its alignment with the research project. The strengths of the individual candidate (in relation to academic competence and commitment) will be considered.All non-native speakers of English must be proficient in written and spoken English.The successful applicant will be required to undertake 150 hours of teaching related work during years 2 and 3 of study.You must have applied for both a place on the PhD programme as well as a scholarship by the scholarship application deadline.The successful candidate must be available to begin their studies in October 2024 on a full-time basis.All scholarship applicants must live in the UK during their studies, within commutable distance to campus.How to applyPlease discuss your research proposal of the above project with Dr Najah Batikh [email protected] , Azza Mahmoud [email protected], and the research lead Hany Hassanin [email protected] ahead of applying.  You will be required to submit a research proposal and asked to interview with a potential supervisor in the faculty. You can find the research proposal form here. Submit your application via the website Click on the Apply now button in the blue bar at the bottom of this page https://www.canterbury.ac.uk/study-here/explore-postgraduate/explore-postgraduate-research/research-subject-areas/science-information-technology-and-engineeringSelect ‘Science, information technology and engineering’ for the area of researchSelect information technology and engineering for your subject area.Select full-time study and October 2024 as a start date.Tick the box on the proposal form to indicate application for a scholarship alongside a place on the PhD programme.You will be required to upload: Two references Your completed research proposal form A Curriculum Vitae (CV) Evidence of your qualifications A pass in the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) if required. For any queries about the application and admissions process please contact Postgraduate Admissions [email protected].