Multiscale optimisation of aperiodic lattice metamaterials for spatially-programmable printed structures

About the Project

The design of next-generation engineering materials is undergoing a paradigm shift, driven by advances in additive manufacturing and computational design. Architected lattice metamaterials—structures whose properties arise from geometry rather than composition—offer unprecedented opportunities to create lightweight, high-performance systems with tailored mechanical and thermal behaviour. To date, however, most design frameworks rely on periodic unit cells, limiting the achievable performance, adaptability, and robustness of these materials. Emerging evidence suggests that aperiodic lattices—ordered yet non-repeating structures inspired by quasiperiodic tilings—can exhibit near-isotropic behaviour, enhanced damage tolerance, and superior performance under complex and uncertain loading conditions.

This PhD project aims to surpass conventional periodic design by developing a new generation of multiscale optimisation tools for aperiodic lattice metamaterials. The research will integrate physics-based modelling with machine learning to enable the efficient exploration of vast design spaces defined by microarchitectures based on the mathematics of aperiodic order. By combining computational mechanics, data-driven surrogate modelling, and advanced manufacturing, the project will establish new principles for designing materials with spatially programmable properties. The successful candidate will join a rapidly evolving research area at the intersection of structural optimisation, materials, and artificial intelligence. This is an opportunity to contribute to world-class research with the potential to transform how materials are designed for applications ranging from aerospace and energy to biomedical engineering. The project is particularly suited to candidates motivated by fundamental challenges and eager to develop innovative solutions with real-world impact.

Eligibility

Applicants should have, or expect to achieve, at least a 2.1 honours degree or a master’s (or international equivalent) in a relevant science or engineering related discipline.

Funding

This 3.5 year PhD is funded by the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering and is available to UK-based students. The successful candidate will receive an annual tax free stipend set at the UKRI amount (£20,780 + Tuition fees for the 2025/2026 academic year).

Before you apply

We strongly recommend that you contact the supervisor(s) for this project before you apply. Please include details of your current level of study, academic background and any relevant experience and include a paragraph about your motivation to study this PhD project.

How to apply

Apply online through our website: https://uom.link/pgr-apply-2425

When applying, you’ll need to specify the full name of this project, the name of your supervisor, if you already having funding or if you wish to be considered for available funding through the university, details of your previous study, and names and contact details of two referees.

Your application will not be processed without all of the required documents submitted at the time of application, and we cannot accept responsibility for late or missed deadlines. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

After you have applied you will be asked to upload the following supporting documents:

• Final Transcript and certificates of all awarded university level qualifications
• Interim Transcript of any university level qualifications in progress
• CV
• Supporting statement: A one or two page statement outlining your motivation to pursue postgraduate research and why you want to undertake postgraduate research at Manchester, any relevant research or work experience, the key findings of your previous research experience, and techniques and skills you’ve developed. (This is mandatory for all applicants and the application will be put on hold without it).
• Contact details for two referees (please make sure that the contact email you provide is an official university/work email address as we may need to verify the reference)
• English Language certificate (if applicable)

If you have any questions about making an application, please contact our admissions team by emailing FSE.doctoralacademy.admissions@manchester.ac.uk.