PhD Studentship in Computer Science

School/Faculty: Engineering
Location: University of Nottingham
Reference: ENG292
Closing Date: Tuesday 24 February 2026
Duration: 3.5 years
Funding: Fully funded (tuition and UKRI stipend)

Project Overview

Are abrasive grains truly “indestructible”? This project, conducted in a leading experimental lab, will challenge conventional understanding of soil-structure interaction (SSI). It investigates how changing particle shape during continuous shearing affects material wear and stress transfer, with applications in:

• Wind turbine foundations

• Underground pipelines

• Pharmaceutical manufacturing

• Other granular material engineering challenges

Although sand is one of the most ubiquitous engineering materials, the mechanics of sand-structure interaction under shear remain poorly understood. This project welcomes applicants with backgrounds in mechanical/materials engineering, mathematics, computer science (numerical modelling), or civil engineering with a focus on soil mechanics/geotechnics.

Skills You’ll Gain

Under supervision, you will develop:

• Expertise in experimental modelling challenges and solutions

• Advanced programming, data analysis, and simulation skills

• Ability to communicate complex research effectively

• Opportunities for lab demonstration and teaching experience

• Confidence in tackling open-ended research problems

Desirable Skills (not required)

• Python programming for data analysis

• Understanding of granular mechanics (geotechnics)

• Numerical modelling

Eligibility

• Available for UK nationals, with exceptional international applicants considered

• Fully funded 3.5-year studentship including a tax-free UKRI stipend of ~£20,780

• Tuition fees included

How to Apply

For further information, contact the supervisor via email with the subject line: “Interface Micromechanics PhD”.

In your application, please refer to Polytechnicpositions.com