Swansea University Research Excellence Scholarships (SURES)

Swansea University invites applications for a fully-funded PhD position in Civil Engineering, focusing on the development of advanced AI-designed bio-based capsules for self-healing asphalt. This project is part of the Swansea University Research Excellence Scholarships (SURES) programme, which offers full tuition fees, a UKRI-standard stipend (£21,805 for 2026/27), and an annual training allowance of £1,000 to support research activities, conference attendance, and industry engagement. The scholarship is available for three years, with students expected to submit their thesis within this period.

The research addresses the urgent need for sustainable and durable road infrastructure in the context of climate change and increasing traffic demands. Traditional asphalt repair methods are resource-intensive, prompting the exploration of self-healing solutions. The project aims to design and optimise bio-based capsules containing rejuvenating agents, using AI-enhanced computational methods and multiscale experimental testing. Key approaches include machine learning for property prediction, generative models for inverse design, and physics-informed neural networks to integrate experimental data with physical constraints. The goal is to establish a fundamental understanding of structure–property relationships and promote adaptive self-healing asphalt materials.

Supervised by Dr Jose Norambuena-Contreras and Professor Antonio J. Gil, the research will be conducted at Swansea University's Singleton and Bay Campus. The project is aligned with the Civil Engineering programme and offers opportunities for immersive training, industry collaboration, and international engagement.

Eligibility requirements include a 1st class UK undergraduate degree (or equivalent international qualification), or a 2:1 UK undergraduate degree and a Distinction in a UK master’s degree (or international equivalent). Current master’s students must have at least an upper-second-class (2:1) honours degree and a minimum grade average of 70% in taught modules, with dissertation submitted by 30/09/2026. English language proficiency is required (IELTS 6.5 overall, with at least 6.5 in each component or equivalent). Some applicants may require ATAS clearance, but this is not needed for the scholarship application process. Applicants must be able to start in October 2026; deferral is possible for up to three months in exceptional circumstances.

To apply, candidates should submit their application online via the provided FindAPhD link and are encouraged to contact the supervisors for informal enquiries prior to the deadline. The application deadline is May 18, 2026.