Lubrication Science and Engineering for Low-Carbon Engines

About the Project

The transition to low-carbon transport demands innovative engineering solutions to enable sustainable powertrains. A full scholarship is available in the Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, supported by BP Castrol and UKRI/EPSRC. The scholarship is open to UK applicants with a background in engineering or physical sciences and covers fees and maintenance.

This fully funded PhD project combines fundamental tribology, lubricant chemistry, and real world engine engineering. The successful candidate will experimentally evaluate how alternative fuels interact with lubricants and engine surfaces and study their effects on friction and wear. The project will have access to state of the art experimental facilities and advanced surface and chemical characterisation techniques. Through close collaboration with BP Castrol, the PhD will deliver insights that directly support the design of durable, efficient, and sustainable engine lubrication technologies.

This project is ideal for highly motivated graduates seeking a PhD that blends cutting edge research, hands on engineering experimentation and strong industrial engagement, while developing skills highly sought after in academia and advanced engineering industries.

The project will be based across two Schools in the Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences: Mechanical Engineering and Chemical and Process Engineering.

Funding Notes

A highly competitive EPSRC Faculty Doctoral Landscape Award, in collaboration with BP-Castrol, providing full academic fees, together with a tax-free maintenance grant at the standard UKRI rate of £21,805 for 3.5 years. Training and support will also be provided. This opportunity is open to UK applicants only. All candidates will be placed into the EPSRC Faculty Doctoral Landscape Award Competition and selection is based on academic merit.