Intelligent X-ray computed tomography scanning for advanced manufacturing

About the Project

Supervisory Team: Dr Joseph Lifton

This project will develop intelligent scanning strategies that overcome the limitations of conventional X-ray computed tomography (XCT), enabling inspection of next-generation engineering components.

X-ray computed tomography (XCT) enables non-destructive inspection of engineering components for verify manufacturing quality and component safety. However, as engineering components become more geometrically complex, XCT scanning becomes more challenging.

X-ray computed tomography is increasingly used for the measurement and inspection of engineering components and assemblies, particularly for high-value and safety critical components in the aerospace, energy generation, and automotive sectors. XCT is an attractive choice for these measurement and inspection tasks as it can non-destructively image internal structures in 3D, sometimes with micron level resolution.

Most lab-based XCT systems use a fixed X-ray source and detector configuration and rotate the object to be scanned. This approach works very well for small objects with simple geometries, however, when scanning large, complex geometries like aircraft structures, or freeform additively manufactured components, this approach becomes sub-optimal.

The aim of this project is to develop new scan strategies that overcome the inherent limitations of conventional circular trajectory XCT. This could include:

• exploring the use of robotic manipulators
• developing AI-driven scan optimisation strategies
• developing digital twins

The project will involve both experimental and simulation work and will require a significant amount of image processing, so you would be well suited if you have strong programming skills. An understanding of X-ray imaging is not required as this understanding can be developed during the project.

Entry requirements

You must have a UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent, in engineering or physics.

Image processing skills in Python or Matlab are desirable.

Fees and funding

We offer a range of funding opportunities for both UK and international students. Horizon Europe fee waivers automatically cover the difference between overseas and UK fees for qualifying students.

Competition-based Presidential Bursaries from the University cover the difference between overseas and UK fees for top-ranked applicants.

Competition-based studentships offered by our schools typically cover UK-level tuition fees and a stipend for living costs for top-ranked applicants.

Funding will be awarded on a rolling basis, so apply early for the best opportunity to be considered.

For more information, please visit our postgraduate research funding pages.

How to apply

Apply now

You need to:

• choose programme type (Research), 2026/27, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences
• select Full time or Part time
• search for programme PhD Engineering & the Environment (7175)
• add name of the supervisor in section 2 of the application

Applications should include:

• your CV (resumé)
• 2 academic references
• degree transcripts and certificates to date
• English language qualification (if applicable)