PhD Studentship: Titanium Chemistry to Post-process Additive Manufactured Lattices

From Loughborough University - Mechanical, Electrical and Manufacturing Engineering

Qualification Type: PhD

Location: Loughborough

Funding for: UK Students, International Students

Funding amount: A tax-free stipend of £20,780 per annum for the duration of the studentship plus university tuition fees

Hours: Full Time

Placed On: 14th October 2025

Closes: 31st December 2025

Reference: FP-CTS/2-2025

Surface features are important in additive manufactured parts. While Additive Manufacturing technology has made great strides in the realisation of complex shapes and tailored topologies, it still lacks good surface finishing quality.

This project will investigate the science behind titanium chemistry and surface finishing for the control of porosity in engineered lattice components. These components see applications in the transport, catalysis and bioengineering industries.

The research will focus on wet chemical processes and the study of chemical reactions on the component's surface. We will create a working framework that includes both experimental and modelling prototypes, including AI/ML tools to assist with the large number of variables involved.

This project is seeking candidates with a profound interest in inorganic chemistry, both in experimental and modelling applications. We are looking for candidates who are also interested in the analytical and numerical aspects of the work, to support the experimental activity. The candidate will be joining a multidisciplinary team in a lab where we design, make and validate materials and structures.

This PhD will expose the successful candidate to a myriad of new techniques and much sought-after skills demanded by industry, including the following:

• Design of experiments, data harvesting/analysis and interpretation of results to derive insight.
• Development of novel processing techniques
• Modelling techniques that can inform the direction of experimental activity
• Physical, mechanical and materials characterisation techniques
• Data-driven approaches to aid process parameter optimisation
• Management (including self-management) techniques, scaffolded by the ‘Transition Zone’ ethos that supports researchers’ professional development.

Entry requirements: A 2:1 in BSc Chemistry or an MSc in any applied chemistry degree, including inorganic chemistry, chemical physics, analytical methods, simulation and modelling of chemical reactions.

English language requirements: Applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Further details are available on the International website.

Funding information: The studentship is for three years and provides a tax-free stipend of £20,780 per annum for the duration of the studentship plus university tuition fees.

How to Apply: All applications should be made online via the above ‘Apply’ button. Under ‘Campus’, please select ‘Loughborough’ and select the ‘Programme’ as ‘Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering’. Please quote the advertised reference number of ‘FP-CTS/2-2025’ in your application. Applications must include a personal statement, up-to-date curriculum vitae (CV), details of two referees (one from your highest degree qualification), certified certificates and transcripts for all completed degree programmes, and a reference to the project ‘FP-CTS/2-2025’. Submission of a research proposal is not essential but may strengthen your application.