About the Project
We welcome a highly motivated PhD researcher with a background in chemistry, polymer science, materials science or chemical engineering to join the Advanced Elastomer Research Group at the International Institute for Nanocomposites Manufacturing (IINM), WMG, University of Warwick.
Sponsored by a global tyre industry, this project will look into surface chemistry and nanocomposites technology to understand the dynamic performance of advanced elastomer nanocomposites. You will investigate structure–property relationships linking surface chemistry to viscoelasticity, energy efficiency and durability. Carbon and hybrid nanomaterials will also be explored to enhance reinforcement and thermal conductivity, with the aim of reducing energy loss and improving durability.
The project will address key environmental challenges, including tyre-wear particle emissions and emerging Euro 7 requirements, while exploring lower embodied carbon, extended service life, self-healing, adaptiveness and reprocessability.
This project offers an exciting training opportunity to grasp advanced rheology analysis, solid-state NMR, and time-resolved structure characterisation, to combine polymer chemistry, nanotechnology and dynamic performance to create next-generation elastomers for sustainable mobility.
Candidates with experience in polymers, elastomers, nanomaterials, surface chemistry or advanced characterisation are particularly encouraged to apply.
Essential Criteria
A highly motivated candidate, with (or expect to hold) a 1st or upper 2nd class MSc / MChem / BSc in chemistry, polymer science or chemical engineering, understand and has experience in chemical synthesis, analytic chemistry and structure characterisation.
Desirable Criteria
Candidates should have strong time-management and organisational skills, work effectively both independently and as part of a team, meet deadlines reliably, and demonstrate excellent academic writing, communication, and presentation skills.
For any enquiries about the project, please feel free to contact Prof. Chaoying Wan at chaoying.wan@warwick.ac.uk
Funding Notes
Global tyre industry partner funding for 3.5 years