PhD Studentship in Tribology: the mechanisms by which soot causes problematic wear in heavy-duty diesel engine components

Applications are invited for a research studentship in the field of Tribology, leading to the award of a PhD degree. The studentship is for three and a half years starting spring 2020. The post is supported by a major vehicle manufacturer.

The project will investigate the mechanisms by which soot causes problematic wear in heavy-duty diesel engine components. This is important since understanding soot mediated wear can allow an increase in the amount of soot in engine oil. This will enable vehicles to achieve an optimum CO2 - NOx trade-off, and hence lower emissions. Current industry standard lubricant tests for used oil fail to predict soot related wear problems in real engines and therefore new analytical techniques are required. To address this, the PhD project will develop a range of lab-based tests to characterise oil properties and compare with friction and wear measurements. Results of which will form part of an industrial programme utilizing real field data. This will involve working closely with, and travel to, a number of industrial sponsors and academic collaborators.

The PhD will be based in the Tribology Group at Imperial College London. This is one of the largest Tribology research groups in the world, with extensive experimental and numerical research facilities and an international reputation for research excellence. The Group includes several PhD students, post-doctoral researchers and academic staff, who perform both fundamental and applied research, and offers a vibrant and multicultural working environment.

The successful candidate will be enthusiastic and self-motivated and will meet the academic requirements for enrolment for the PhD degree at Imperial College London. They will have a background in Mechanical, Aeronautical or Chemical Engineering, Material Science, Physics, Chemistry or a related field together with a strong intellect and an enquiring approach to research. Excellent team-working, analytical and communication skills are also essential. Training will be given in tribology and investigative techniques including optical interferometry, advanced material characterisation, and surface topography measurements. The studentship will provide the opportunity to become a skilled communicator, comfortable in an international environment at a world-leading institution.

To find out more about research at Imperial College London in this area, go to:
http://www3.imperial.ac.uk/mechanicalengineering

For information on how to apply, go to:
http://www3.imperial.ac.uk/mechanicalengineering/research/phdopportunities/.

For further details of the post contact Dr Tom Reddyhoff at [Email Address Removed] or +44 (0)20 7594 3840. Interested applicants should send an up-to-date curriculum vitae to Dr Tom Reddyhoff on the above e-mail address citing “Tribology PhD Studentship” in the email title. Suitable candidates will be required to complete an electronic application form at Imperial College London in order for their qualifications to be addressed by College Registry.