Additive Manufacture of Functional Morphing Structures

Multistable and morphing structures have emerged as an exciting new avenue for engineering solutions in aerospace, energy and biomedical applications. Theoretical understanding of these structures has vastly improved in recent years, but their practical applications are still underdeveloped. As additive manufacturing methods are also experiencing rapid improvements, a unique opportunity exists to produce simple devices that combine structural and mechanical functions.

A new project is commencing within the Materials and Structures Group at the University of Bath. The aim of the project is to investigate practical aspects of manufacturing functional morphing structures with the latest additive manufacturing technologies, and while using active materials. Demonstrators for these updated devices will be evaluated in the lab and using numerical methods, bringing an exciting recent technology closer to production.

The successful candidate will benefit from frequent interaction with industrial partners in the manufacturing sector, as well as collaborations with other major academic institutions.

The successful candidate will have a first or high 2:1 in mechanical or manufacturing engineering, material science, physics or similar disciplines. Any English language requirements must be met at the deadline for applications.

Informal enquiries should be directed to Dr Evros Loukaides ([Email Address Removed])

Formal applications should be made via the University of Bath’s online application form for a PhD in Mechanical Engineering. Please ensure that you state the full project title and lead supervisor name on the application form.

https://samis.bath.ac.uk/urd/sits.urd/run/siw_ipp_lgn.login?process=siw_ipp_app&code1=RDUME-FP01&code2=0013

A full application must be submitted by the application deadline, including all supporting documents, to enable review.

More information about applying for a PhD at Bath may be found here:

http://www.bath.ac.uk/guides/how-to-apply-for-doctoral-study/

Anticipated start date: 30 September 2019