4 Year PhD in Ultra Precision Engineering

The EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Ultra Precision Engineering is currently recruiting postgraduate students interested in developing the next generation of ultra precision devices, processes, manufacturing systems and advanced manufacturing technologies.

Many industrial sectors require a high level of precision, such as aerospace, medical devices, automotive, energy, security and defence. Students completing the MRes and PhD will be central players in the ultra high precision wealth creation economy.

The aim of the programme is to train students in advanced ultra high precision techniques and processes, including: high energy laser micro/nano processing; focused ion beam machining; reactive atom plasma processing; nanofabrication; graphene engineering; printed electronics machine design; and advanced metrology systems.

Course overview

The programme is structured in two phases: a one-year taught MRes course in Cambridge or Cranfield University; followed by a three-year PhD research programme at Cranfield, Cambridge or another UK university through the National Centre Programme in Ultra Precision.

Upon successful completion of the MRes, the students progress to their PhD choosing from a vast range of topics including: manufacturing engineering; laser processes; photonics; materials science; biological engineering; control systems; and machine design. During their PhD many students will be offered the opportunity to work alongside industrial partners allowing them to gain valuable business experience whilst receiving an additional maintenance top-up, bringing their stipend up to a possible £19,000pa (tax free).

Requirements

We welcome applicants from any field of science or engineering who have obtained a first or upper second class honours degree (or equivalent). You should possess an innovative approach to problem solving, well-developed technical skills and the potential to become world leaders in the field of ultra precision.

Funding

Full EPSRC funding (currently £14,553 student maintenance per year + fees), with possible additional payments from industrial sponsors taking the tax free stipend up to £19,000pa during the PhD phase is available for UK students and EU students who have settled status in the UK and been resident in the UK full-time for 3 years prior to October 2018. General student eligibility information is available from the EPSRC.

Overseas / Non-EU applicants are not eligible to apply for funding from the CDT in Ultra Precision, but are encouraged to apply if they are self-funding or applying for scholarships.

Application

The application process has now closed for 2018/19 applicants.
Please contact CDTUP-enquiries@eng.cam.ac.uk for information on future intakes.

For more information please contact the course office:
CDTUP-enquiries@eng.cam.ac.uk

or access the centre website at:
www.CDT-UP.eng.cam.ac.uk