PhD Studentship: Automating Earthworks Construction and Maintenance Processes Loughborough University in United Kingdom

[Fully funded studentship for three years, providing a tax-free stipend of £20,780 per annum plus university tuition fees. For part-time students, the stipend is paid pro rata across six years. Subject to final university approval.]

This fully funded PhD studentship at Loughborough University focuses on automating earthworks construction and maintenance processes to enhance the resilience of critical infrastructure. As part of the Vice Chancellor’s PhD Cluster – RAINDROP (Resilient eArthwork INfrastructure: Diagnosis, RehabilitatiOn & Prognosis), the successful candidate will join a cohort of doctoral researchers working on interdisciplinary projects aimed at developing sustainable, intelligent, and climate change-resilient infrastructure slopes.

The project addresses the increasing deterioration of earthworks slopes, such as cuttings and embankments, which support transport infrastructure and serve as flood defences. With climate change driving more extreme weather events, the resilience of these structures is under threat. The research will explore the role of automation in both the construction and maintenance of earthworks, aiming to develop a system-of-systems framework for real-time control and delivery of advanced geotechnical structures, including the use of ‘printed’ soil and integration with structural elements like soil nails, retaining structures, and drainage systems.

Key research themes include tracking soil from excavation through treatment, transport, placement, and testing to produce digital records, optimizing soil engineering properties in real time, and removing workforces from hazardous environments to improve safety, sustainability, and efficiency. The project is highly interdisciplinary, combining civil engineering, environmental science, automation, and digital technologies.

The studentship provides a tax-free stipend of £20,780 per annum for three years, plus full university tuition fees. For part-time students, the stipend is paid pro rata over six years. The position is subject to final university approval.

Applicants should hold, or expect to achieve, a first-class or high 2:1 degree in a relevant engineering or physical science discipline. A relevant master’s degree and/or employment experience is advantageous. Candidates must be self-motivated and enthusiastic about the project. English language requirements must be met as per university guidelines.

To apply, candidates must submit an online application including a completed studentship application form (instead of a personal statement), a two-page research proposal based on the project description, and an up-to-date CV. Under programme name, select 'Architecture, Building and Civil Engineering' and quote reference ABCE-RAINDROP-AB. Ensure all required supporting documents are included to avoid delays.

For further information or questions, prospective applicants may contact the primary supervisor, Dr Ana Blanco.