PhD Studentship - Micromechanics of Grain-interface Interactions (Soil-structure Interaction)

University of Nottingham

Qualification Type:	PhD
Location:	Nottingham
Funding for:	UK Students, EU Students, International Students
Funding amount:	£20,780 - please see advert
Hours:	Full Time

Placed On:	10th February 2026
Closes:	10th May 2026

Supervisors: Dr Angus Pettey and Dr Charles Heron

Are abrasive grains truly "indestructible"? Research in our leading experimental lab is challenging the traditional view of soil-structure interaction. This project will investigate the critical role of changing particle shape on material wear and elevated stress transfer during continuous shearing which impacts wind turbine foundations, underground pipelines, and pharmaceutical manufacture, among others. Sand is the most ubiquitous engineering material on earth, yet research cannot fully explain the interaction between sand and structural materials as they shear and cause abrasion. This lack of understanding affects all granular problems, as such the applicant does not necessarily require formal education in geotechnics.

Candidate requirements

Applicants with a background in mechanical/materials engineering or alternatively mathematics/computer science with an interest in numerical modelling are welcome to apply as well as civil engineering graduates with a focus on soil mechanics/geotechnics.

The following desirable skills are an advantage, but not a requirement.

• Data analysis skills in python
• Granular mechanics - geotechnics
• Numerical modelling

Skills you will gain

Under supervision you will gain:

• Expert knowledge of experimental modelling challenges and solutions
• Advanced programming/data analysis and simulation skills
• How to effectively communicate complex and novel research
• Opportunities to develop lab demonstration/teaching experience
• The confidence to deal with uncertainty and tackle any problem without a defined final answer

Funding

This position is fully funded for 3.5 years tuition and includes a tax-free UKRI stipend of approximately £20,780. After a suitable candidate is found, funding is then sought from the University of Nottingham as part of a competitive process.

Eligibility and how to apply

This studentship is available for UK nationals, or in exceptional circumstances international applicants where the candidate has a strong application.

Interested applicants can find out more by emailing Dr Angus Pettey at angus.pettey1@nottingham.ac.uk. Please email with the subject line “Interface Micromechanics PhD.”