AMP - Acoustically Assisted Manufacturing of Functional Polymers PhD University of Warwick in United Kingdom

[Full tuition fees plus a tax-free stipend of £21,805 at the prevailing UKRI rate for 3.5 years, plus a £5,000 research training support grant.]

AMP – Acoustically Assisted Manufacturing of Functional Polymers is a fully funded PhD project at the University of Warwick for students interested in acoustics, polymer processing, and advanced functional materials.

The project asks how sound can be used to engineer the internal structure of materials during manufacturing. You will develop new acoustic methods to organise filler particles and control crystallisation in polymer composites, progressing from low-viscosity laboratory systems to high-temperature polymer melts relevant to extrusion and industrial polymer-processing methods.

This is a predominantly experimental PhD combining experimental acoustics, materials processing, modelling, and advanced characterisation. You will design and build an acoustic patterning system using ultrasonic transducers and waveguides, supported by multiphysics modelling of acoustic fields, particle motion, and polymer behaviour. The resulting composites will then be studied using advanced microscopy and structural characterisation, together with measurements of thermal, electrical, mechanical, and responsive properties.

You will join an interdisciplinary team with expertise in acoustics, polymer processing, nanocomposites, modelling, and ultrasound-controlled crystallisation. The project also offers experience with experimental ultrasonics, composite fabrication, high-temperature processing, COMSOL modelling, and advanced materials characterisation, with opportunities to publish, present at conferences, and engage with industrial researchers.

Funding is available through EPSRC and is open to UK, EU, and international students. The scholarship covers full tuition fees, a tax-free stipend currently set at £21,805 per year at the prevailing UKRI rate, for 3.5 years of full-time study, plus a £5,000 research training support grant.

Applicants should have a good 2.1 or first-class degree in Engineering, Physics, or an equivalent subject. The school encourages applications from candidates with an interest in acoustics, ultrasound, manufacturing, and polymer composites, as well as strong experimental and analytical skills. Academic writing skills would be helpful, and training will be provided.

Applications are made by expression of interest: submit a CV and supporting statement via the Apply link. If successful at this stage, you will be invited to submit a formal application. Candidates must meet University of Warwick entry criteria and obtain an unconditional offer before enrolment. The application deadline is 31 October 2026.

The School of Engineering highlights its Athena Gold award and a supportive environment, and particularly encourages candidates from underrepresented backgrounds to apply.