PhD Research Studentships

Multifunctional composites with integrated sensing and easy repairing capabilities

Supervisor:	Han ZHANG
Apply by:	31 January 2020

Description

High performance advanced composites are increasingly being used in the aerospace, automotive, and renewable energy sectors. Do you want to be part of the next generation of composite materials, contributing to the development of futuristic performances like an integrated sensory network for online structural health monitoring, inspired by our nerve system, more environmental friendly de-icing for aircraft and wind turbines without use of any solvents, and capability to repair their internal damages?

By joining the Polymers and Composites group at QMUL, you will be able to turn these ideas into reality, with a strong training and access to processing equipment of both thermoplastic and thermoset (nano)composites, as well as advanced characterisation technique like in-situ sensing measurements. From the design, processing, to testing of the hierarchical composites, you will be a core part of the process to realise these integrated functionalities for future composites.

You will need to have basic knowledge on polymers and composites, preferably on advanced composite manufacturing and characterisation, and nanomaterials like carbon nanotubes and graphene nanoplatelets. Experience in using software like LabView for data acquisition and analysis, and knowledge on smart materials with self-sensing capabilities as well as a good knowledge of polymer physics are desirable.

Applicants are required to submit a brief description (as part of personal statement) to explain why you are the ideal candidate for this role, and how will this PhD help your career in the future.

QMUL Research Studentship Details

Available to Home/EU Applicants only (see: http://www.welfare.qmul.ac.uk/money/feestatus/ for details).
Full Time programme only.
Applicant required to start studies in April 2020.
The studentship arrangement will cover tuition fees and provide an annual stipend for up to three and a half years (Currently set as £17,009 in 2019/20).
The minimum requirement for this studentship opportunity is a good Honours degree (minimum 2(i) honours or equivalent) or MSc/MRes in a relevant discipline.
If English is not your first language you will require a valid English certificate equivalent to IELTS 6.5+ overall with a minimum score of 6 in Writing and 5.5 in all sections (Reading, Listening, Speaking).

Supervisor Contact Details
For informal enquiries about this position, please contact Dr Han Zhang
Tel: 020 7882 2726
E-mail: han.zhang@qmul.ac.uk

Application Method
To apply for this studentship and for entry on to the Materials Science programme (Full Time) please follow the instructions detailed on the following webpage:

Research degrees in Materials: http://www.qmul.ac.uk/postgraduate/research/subjects/materials.html

Further Guidance: http://www.qmul.ac.uk/postgraduate/research/

Please be sure to include a reference to ‘2019 SEMS HZ’ to associate your application with this studentship opportunity.

Eligibility

The minimum requirement for this studentship opportunity is a good honours degree (minimum 2(i) honours or equivalent) or MSc/MRes in a relevant discipline.
If English is not your first language, you will require a valid English certificate equivalent to IELTS 6.5+ overall with a minimum score of 6.0 in Writing and 5.5 in all sections (Reading, Listening, Speaking).
Candidates are expected to start in (Semester ).
SEMS and Principal-funded studentships: this studentship arrangement covers home tuition fees and provides an annual stipend for up to three years (currently set at the 2023/24 stipend rate of £20,622 pa)
Note that Queen Mary Research Studentships cover home-rated tuition fees only (See: www.welfare.qmul.ac.uk/money/feestatus/ for details)
Overseas applicants would be required to meet the difference between home and international tuition fees

Contact

For informal enquiries about this opportunity, please contact Han ZHANG.