PhD Studentships in Nanoparticle-Reinforced Coatings and Chemical Recycling for Offshore Wind Turbine Blades at Loughborough University Loughborough University in United Kingdom

Loughborough University, in partnership with the AURA Offshore Wind Energy Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT), Trelleborg, and Metol, is offering two fully funded PhD studentships for an October 2026 start. These projects are designed to advance the future of sustainable wind energy through innovative research in materials science, chemical engineering, and environmental assessment. The studentships are part of the EPSRC CDT in Offshore Wind Energy Sustainability and Resilience, a collaboration between the Universities of Durham, Hull, Loughborough, and Sheffield.

Project 1: Nanoparticle-reinforced coatings for leading edge protection of offshore wind turbine blades focuses on developing advanced polyurethane coatings enhanced with ceramic nanoparticles to improve the durability and erosion resistance of wind turbine blades. The research will involve materials formulation, microstructural and mechanical characterization, and environmental testing using a novel rain erosion simulator. The project is supported by Trelleborg and aims to deliver scalable, low-maintenance solutions for the wind energy sector.

Project 2: Chemical recycling and life cycle assessment of next-generation thermoplastic composites for wind turbine blade manufacture addresses the challenge of recycling turbine blades by exploring solvolysis-based chemical recycling of new thermoplastic resin systems developed by Metol. The project will include advanced analytical characterization, re-manufacturing of composite laminates, and comprehensive life cycle assessment to evaluate environmental impacts and circularity metrics.

Both projects offer a comprehensive training programme, starting with a six-month cohort-based training at the University of Hull, followed by research at Loughborough University. The studentships are fully funded, covering tuition fees and a stipend of £20,780 per annum (2025/26 rates), with increases in line with UKRI guidelines. Funding is available for both Home (UK) and a limited number of International students.

Eligibility: Applicants should have a strong academic background in materials science, chemical engineering, polymer science, chemistry, or a related field. English language proficiency (IELTS 7.0 overall, minimum 6.0 in each skill) is required for non-native speakers. Applicants must meet UKRI/EPSRC residence requirements for Home status, but international scholarships are also available. Application materials include a short presentation video, supplementary application form, transcripts, and CV.

Application deadline: 5 January 2026. Apply via the Loughborough University admissions portal, selecting 'Materials Engineering Offshore Wind Energy Sustainability and Resilience' as the programme. Only one CDT project application is allowed per applicant. For more information, visit the project and CDT websites or contact the supervisors directly.