PhD Studentship: Microstructurally Informed Modelling of Metal Fragmentation

The University of Manchester - Department of Materials

Qualification Type:PhDLocation:ManchesterFunding for:UK StudentsFunding amount:£20,780 annual tax-free stipend set at the UKRI rate (for 2025/26) and tuition fees will be paidHours:Full TimePlaced On:27th January 2026Closes:31st May 2026

Application deadline: 31/05/2026

Research theme: Metallic materials

How to apply: https://uom.link/pgr-apply-2425

UK only

This 3.5-year PhD project is fully funded and home students are eligible to apply. The successful candidate will receive an annual tax-free stipend set at the UKRI rate (£20,780 for 2025/26) and tuition fees will be paid. We expect the stipend to increase each year. The start date is October 2026.

We recommend that you apply early as the advert may be removed before the deadline.

Metal components subject to high rates of deformation can fail catastrophically by fragmentation. Understanding and predicting this fragmentation process is critical to protecting structures and people from the damage it can cause. This has applications including defence and space.

This project will involve developing better models for fragmentation of metals that include a consideration of the structure at the micro-scale, linking this to fragment formation at the macro-level. This will build on work in crystal plasticity modelling at Manchester. The models will be informed by advanced characterization of the microstructures of relevant alloys using electron microscopy. Validation will be performed through trials with the project partner.

The candidate will join a vibrant research group working on related topics at Manchester for both civilian and defence transport and energy sectors. They will be based in the Sir Henry Royce institute, a new, state-of-the-art facility that is the national hub for material science in the UK.

The work is carried out in collaboration with Dstl, an executive agency of the Ministry of Defence whose goal is to maximise the impact of science and technology for the defence and security of the UK. The project will involve working in collaboration with expert DSTL scientists, with opportunities for workplace experience both within the UK and internationally. The position is open to UK nationals only and is fully funded. Candidates will require a degree in metallurgy, materials science, physics, or a related engineering subject.

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.

To apply, please contact Prof Robson - joseph.robson@manchester.ac.uk. 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.