University of Southampton
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6 days ago
PhD in Tribofilm Formation, Dynamic Pressure Sliding, and In-Operando Raman Spectroscopy University of Southampton in United Kingdom
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Chemistry
Funding
Competition-funded PhD project. Funding opportunities are available for UK and international students. Horizon Europe fee waivers may cover the difference between overseas and UK fees for qualifying students. Competition-based Presidential Bursaries may cover the difference between overseas and UK fees for top-ranked applicants. Competition-based studentships typically cover UK-level tuition fees plus a stipend for living costs for top-ranked applicants. Funding is awarded on a rolling basis, so
Deadline
Jan 1, 2027
Country
United Kingdom
University
University of Southampton
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About this position
PhD opportunity at the University of Southampton in tribology, surface engineering, Raman spectroscopy, mechanical engineering, and materials science.
This project, supervised by Dr John Walker, investigates how protective tribofilms form and fail under extreme operating conditions. The research combines dynamic pressure sliding, in-operando Raman spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy to study surface evolution and tribo-layer chemistry in real time.
The project is linked to the National Physical Laboratory and focuses on durable engine surfaces for cleaner, longer-lasting heavy-duty transport. A major application area is hydrogen-fuelled combustion engines, especially for heavy-duty transport and off-highway applications. The work also examines the effects of water contamination, lubricant emulsification, and tribofilm degradation.
Funding: competition-funded PhD project with opportunities for UK and international students. The post mentions Horizon Europe fee waivers, Presidential Bursaries, and studentships that may cover tuition and provide a living stipend for top-ranked applicants.
Eligibility: applicants should have a UK 2:1 honours degree or international equivalent. English language qualification is required if applicable.
How to apply: apply through the University of Southampton portal for Research entry in 2027/28, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, and search for PhD Engineering & the Environment (7175). Include the supervisor name in the application and submit CV, two academic references, transcripts/certificates, and English language evidence if needed.
Deadline: not explicitly stated as a fixed date; funding is awarded on a rolling basis, so early application is recommended.
Funding details
Competition-funded PhD project. Funding opportunities are available for UK and international students. Horizon Europe fee waivers may cover the difference between overseas and UK fees for qualifying students. Competition-based Presidential Bursaries may cover the difference between overseas and UK fees for top-ranked applicants. Competition-based studentships typically cover UK-level tuition fees plus a stipend for living costs for top-ranked applicants. Funding is awarded on a rolling basis, so
What's required
Applicants must have a UK 2:1 honours degree or an international equivalent. English language qualification is required if applicable. The project is suitable for candidates interested in tribology, surface engineering, Raman spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and engine materials.
How to apply
Apply online through the University of Southampton portal. Choose Research, 2027/28, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, then select full time or part time and search for programme PhD Engineering & the Environment (7175). Add the supervisor name in section 2 and upload your CV, two academic references, transcripts/certificates, and English language qualification if applicable.
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