Commercial and industrial applications for 4D printing

4D Printing has been recognized to herald the next generation of Additive Manufacturing components that are intelligent to perform a series of controlled and programmed shape-deformation over time when exposed to stimuli.

The aim of this PhD is to understand existing industrial applications, propose future commercial applications and to also provide a framework to encourage companies and businesses to consider the use of 4D Printed parts. Aspects of business models, marketing strategies and other mechanisms should be explored in this study.

At Brunel University, students will be supported with dedicated supervision and guidance from experts throughout your study. You should be a highly motivated candidate to embark on this doctoral research programme. You will gain an understanding of 4D Printing to help construct your knowledge for this work. You will be expected to leverage on your contribution to new knowledge of this topic and we are also happy to consider other research project proposals which could be negotiated between the applicant and the supervisor. Applicants should have a first or second class UK honours degree or a recognised equivalent from an overseas university in a related discipline, such as business or marketing will be beneficial. A Masters level qualification is desirable. Applicants who are non-native speakers must possess an English language qualification acceptable by the university. The ideal candidate should be detail-oriented with good analytical skills. We welcome candidates who are sponsored or who have their own funding.