Daniel Eakins

The University of Oxford is offering a fully funded 4-year DPhil (PhD) studentship in the field of shock physics and materials science, focusing on the shock response of hexagonal close-packed crystals such as titanium, magnesium, and zirconium. These materials are crucial in aerospace and nuclear industries due to their exceptional strength-to-weight ratios and high melting points. The research aims to understand how these crystals behave under extreme pressure, such as impacts and shock waves, using advanced techniques like ultrafast laser diagnostics and in-situ X-ray measurements at international facilities. The project is based at Begbroke Science Park within the Impact and Shock Mechanics group, which comprises over 30 researchers and students. The successful candidate will have access to a wide array of experimental platforms to study dynamic high-pressure phenomena and will collaborate with international X-ray facilities in France (ESRF) and Germany (EuXFEL). The research integrates materials science, mechanics, and ultrafast diagnostics, providing a unique opportunity to contribute to the design of materials for space exploration and other extreme environments. Supervision will be provided by Prof Daniel Eakins and Dr David Chapman, both affiliated with the University of Oxford. The studentship is fully funded by AWE, covering all tuition fees for UK students and providing a tax-free maintenance stipend at the UKRI minimum rate for four years. Only UK students are eligible for this award. Eligibility: Applicants must hold a first class or strong upper second class honours degree in Engineering, Physics, or Materials Science. Excellent English communication skills are required. Programming skills (Matlab, Python, or similar) and strong laboratory-based skills are highly desirable. Candidates must meet the University of Oxford's graduate admissions criteria. Application Process: Interested candidates should review the full position details on the official University of Oxford page and may contact Prof Daniel Eakins for informal enquiries. Applications must be submitted via the Oxford graduate admissions portal for the DPhil in Engineering Science, quoting reference 26ENGMM_DE. The deadline for applications is noon on 3 March 2026, with the program starting in October 2026. For more information, visit the official studentship page or contact Prof Daniel Eakins at [email protected].