PhD in Advancing Digital Solutions for Sustainable Metals Manufacturing with Innoval and DigitalMetal-CDT Loughborough University in United Kingdom

This 4-year PhD studentship at Loughborough University, in partnership with Innoval Technology Ltd and the Digital Metal Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT), offers a unique opportunity to advance digital solutions for sustainable metals manufacturing. The programme is designed for candidates passionate about combining computational modelling, data analytics, machine learning, and materials science to address the pressing challenges of decarbonisation and resource efficiency in the global metals industry.

As part of the CDT cohort, you will benefit from tailored courses, mentoring, career support, and conference opportunities. The research aims to evaluate, enhance, and extend Innoval Technology Ltd’s suite of digital tools and modelling capabilities, supporting the transition from Industry 4.0 to Materials 4.0. Innoval’s portfolio includes advanced process models for rolling, quenching, coil heating and cooling, vibration analysis, spray impact modelling, and cost and carbon footprint analysis. These tools require systematic review, integration, and expansion to meet emerging industrial needs.

The project objectives include:

• Comprehensive review and benchmarking of existing digital tools against industrial requirements and academic standards.
• Exploring digital integration and Materials 4.0 readiness, including real-time data ingestion, digital twins, and predictive modelling.
• Developing new sustainability-focused functionalities, such as dynamic energy-use prediction, process optimisation, and scenario analysis for net-zero pathways.
• Validating new digital functionalities through industrial case studies with partners in automotive, aerospace, and advanced manufacturing.
• Proposing a unified architecture and strategic roadmap for Innoval’s next-generation digital platform.

The interdisciplinary methodology combines computational modelling, simulation, data analytics, machine learning, materials science, process metallurgy, industrial sustainability, lifecycle assessment, and systems integration. You will engage in model verification, experimental data comparison, digital twin prototyping, and in-depth case studies with industrial collaborators.

Expected outcomes include a validated review of Innoval’s digital tools, new or improved sustainability-focused functionalities, prototype integrations with Industry 4.0/Materials 4.0 standards, and a strategic roadmap for future digital solutions. The impact of this research will position Innoval as a leader in digital and sustainable metals manufacturing, creating tools that support energy reduction, lower carbon emissions, improved product quality, and more efficient industrial processes.

Applicants must hold at least an equivalent of a UK BEng 2:1 degree in materials, mechanical, manufacturing, chemistry, or a related discipline, with at least 70% in the project element. The project is based at Loughborough University, with expectations for the student to spend time at Innoval. Funding covers tuition fees at UK (Home) rates, a tax-free stipend up to £26,805 per annum, and a £4,000 research training support grant.

Applications must be submitted through the University of Leicester portal. The start date is September 2026, and the application deadline is 31st March 2026. For informal enquiries, contact [email protected] or Dr Simon Hogg ([email protected]).