Chaoying Wan

Two PhD opportunities are available in sustainable functional elastomer nanocomposites at the International Institute for Nanocomposites Manufacturing (IINM), WMG, University of Warwick . The projects focus on next-generation soft materials for thermal management , combining polymer chemistry , network design , biomass-derived functional nanomaterials , phase-change materials , and self-healing elastomers . The first project is Biomass-derived Functional Nanomaterials for Phase-change Thermal Management . The second is Self-healing and Thermal Conductive Elastomers modified with Biomass-derived Nanomaterials . Both projects are framed by the broader push toward Net Zero and aim to develop sustainable and circular materials with tailored thermal and structural properties. The announcer is Professor Chaoying Wan , Professor of Polymer Nanocomposites at the University of Warwick. The post indicates that candidates should have a background in chemistry , polymer science , chemical engineering , or physical chemistry , and should be highly motivated to work on fundamental science with real-world impact. The starting date is stated as Oct 2026 or Feb 2027 . The post does not specify stipend, tuition coverage, or other funding details, but it references the Net2Zero EPSRC and BBSRC CDT in Negative Emission Technologies for Net Zero at the University of Warwick. Interested applicants should review the linked project pages and contact the supervisor with relevant background and research interests.

[Industry-funded PhD studentship with stipend; UK or international funding eligibility; duration 3.5 years.] PhD studentship at the University of Warwick in the Advanced Elastomer Research Group, based at the International Institute for Nanocomposites Manufacturing (IINM), WMG. This industry-funded project, sponsored by a global tyre industry partner, tackles major challenges in future mobility and sustainable materials. The research will investigate how nanointerfaces and polymer–filler interactions control the dynamic performance of next-generation elastomers. Topics include nanoparticle surface chemistry, carbon-based and hybrid nanomaterials, reinforcement, multifunctionality, reduced energy loss, self-healing, adaptiveness, reprocessability, and improved service life. The project combines polymer chemistry, nanotechnology, rheology, dynamic mechanical analysis, solid-state NMR, and time-resolved structural characterisation to establish fundamental microstructure–property relationships. It is designed for a highly motivated PhD researcher with a background in chemistry, polymer science, materials science, chemical engineering, or a related discipline. Applicants should have or expect to hold a strong degree result (1st or upper 2nd class MSc / MChem / BSc) in chemistry, polymer science, or chemical engineering, with experience in chemical synthesis, analytical chemistry, and structure characterisation. Experience with polymers, elastomers, nanomaterials, rheology, or advanced materials characterisation is especially valued. Funding is industry-based and the studentship is open to UK or international candidates. The project duration is 3.5 years and the start date is 1 November 2026. The application deadline is 30 September 2026. Supervision is provided by Prof. Chaoying Wan and Prof. Steven Brown (Physics Department).