Swansea University Research Scholarship

PhD opportunity at Swansea University in Mechanical Engineering, focused on electro-active and magneto-active elastomers for smart vehicle applications. The project sits at the intersection of Materials Science, Polymer Science, Chemistry, and Computational Mechanics, with applications in soft robotics, adaptive vehicle surfaces, and multifunctional polymer composites.

The research aims to synthesize polymeric composites such as natural rubbers filled with conductive particles, then study their microscopic, rheological, and mechanical behaviour before testing electric and magnetic actuation under different field strengths. Potential smart-vehicle applications include changing tread pattern or groove depth, modifying aerodynamics through surface texture changes, reducing vibration/noise, and tuning mechanical hardness.

The scholarship is funded by a multi-national automotive company in Japan and is open to UK and international applicants. Funding covers full tuition fees, a UKRI-rate annual stipend, and additional research expenses of up to £1,000 per year. The duration of funding is 3.5 years, with a project start date in October 2026.

Eligibility requires a 2.1 undergraduate degree or non-UK equivalent in Engineering or a closely related science discipline. English language requirement is IELTS 6.5 overall with at least 5.5 in each component, or an accepted Swansea University equivalent. Some applicants may need ATAS clearance later in the process. Required application materials include a CV, transcripts and degree certificates, a cover letter with supplementary personal statement, one reference, evidence of English proficiency if applicable, visa copy if applicable, and confirmation of EDI form submission.

To apply, complete the online scholarship application and follow the RS970 instructions exactly: enter the RS code, use the scholarship title, leave supervisor and research project fields blank, upload the advert, and select Scholarship Funding only. Informal enquiries can be directed to Professor Mokarram Hossain.