Aim:
This PhD will design and fabricate electrodes with innovative 3D architectures that accelerate ion transport and deliver step-change improvements in LIB performance (fast charging, energy density, and cycling stability).
What you will do and learn:
You will design, engineer and fabricate next-generation electrode structures using advanced manufacturing methods, including high-precision laser structuring, additive manufacturing and micro-/nano-imprinting. You will link electrode architecture to performance using state-of-the-art electrochemical and imaging characterisation techniques. You will have opportunities to visit world-leading synchrotron facilities, such as Diamond Light Source, and to develop strong skills in operando X-ray computed tomography characterisation.
Environment and collaboration:
You will join the Sustainable Energy Research Group and be supervised by a prestigious EPSRC Postdoctoral Fellowship holder, Dr Pengcheng Zhu. You will have full access to advanced battery fabrication and testing facilities and the Loughborough Materials Characterisation Centre (LMCC). The project includes strong collaboration with researchers at Oxford, Birmingham, and Queen Mary University, as well as industrial partners.
Name of primary supervisor/CDT lead:
Pengcheng Zhu https://www.lboro.ac.uk/departments/aae/people/pengcheng-zhu/
Name of secondary supervisor:
Ashley Fly
Entry requirements
Applicants should have, or expect to obtain, at least a 2:1 degree (or equivalent international qualification) in Materials Science, Engineering or a related discipline, with an interest in electrochemical energy systems and battery technologies.
English language requirements
Applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Further details are available on the International website (http://www.lboro.ac.uk/international/applicants/english/).
Funding information
The studentship is for 3 years and provides a tax-free UKRI stipend of £21,805 per annum for the duration of the studentship plus university tuition fees at the UK rate. Due to funding restrictions, this is only available to those eligible for UK fees.
Bench fees required: No
Closing date of advert: 1st September 2026
Start date: February 2027
Full-time/part-time availability: Full-time 3 years
Who is eligible to apply?: UK Only
How to Apply
All applications should be made online. Under Campus, please select Loughborough and select Programme Aeronautical and Automotive Engineering. Please quote the advertised reference number AAE-PZ-2608 in your application.
To avoid delays in processing your application, please ensure that you submit the minimum supporting documents. The following selection criteria will be used by academic schools to help them make a decision on your application.
Project search terms: energy technologies, engineering, manufacturing engineering, battery
Email Address AACME: aacme.pgr@mailbox.lboro.ac.uk
