Applications are invited from suitably qualified electronic engineering/material science/mechanical engineering/physics graduates for a PhD studentship within the Applied Optics Group in the Electrical Systems and Optics Research Division.  The Division has an excellent international reputation for high quality theoretical and experimental research funded by EPSRC, TSB, EU and industry.

The Rolls-Royce funded studentship is the result of the expanding nondestructive evaluation (NDE) and materials characterisation activities sponsored within the Faculty of Engineering dealing with in-depth investigations of safety critical aero-engine components, both during manufacture and through their service life.

This studentship offers the exciting opportunity to perform fundamental multidisciplinary research in the areas of optics, ultrasonics, electronics, materials science, mechanical engineering and manufacturing, with emphasis on developing a characterisation technique developed at the University of Nottingham termed spatially resolved acoustic spectroscopy (SRAS). This laser ultrasonic technique probes the mechanical properties of a material using surface acoustic waves on a very localised scale, permitting rapid imaging of microstructure and texture through the variation in elastic properties.

The research will explore the boundaries of what is possible with the current state of the art, and push the technique towards its ultimate fundamental physical limits. This will involve a development of the understanding of how elastic waves interact with materials and thus determine their mechanical properties, and a corresponding development of the optical and electronic instrumentation necessary to exploit these interactions. Throughout the period of the scholarship, new inspection and characterisation challenges relevant to the aerospace industry will be addressed by application of the techniques that the successful student will develop. Internationally recognised Rolls-Royce specialists in the field will be available throughout the project to provide the PhD student with support and guidance as required.

The studentship will be supported by academic and industrial supervisors. In this way, the student will develop both academic and industrial skills with multiple career opportunities at the end of the PhD study. For PhD students wishing to pursue an academic career, the opportunity to participate in teaching activities will be sought.

The bursary covers the tuition fees and provides a tax-free stipend of approximately £13,00 per month for the duration of the project  – starting from August/September 2013.  This is an excellent opportunity for an enthusiastic 1^st class or 2:1-class graduate in electronic engineering/material science/mechanical engineering/physics to build strong knowledge in both applied physics and material science while building strong relationships with both academic and industrial areas at international level. Students finishing their degrees in June 2013 are also encouraged to apply. Due to the nature of funding only UK/EU applicants can be considered for this position.

Informal enquiries may be addressed to Dr S D Sharples, tel: 0115 9515220 or email: steve.sharples@nottingham.ac.uk

Students should send applications, with a detailed CV and letter of application, together with the names and addresses of two referees, should be sent to Dr S D Sharples steve.sharples@nottingham.ac.uk and to be submitted on line via the ‘Apply’ button below.

To apply click on the ‘Apply’ button below.

Please quote ref. ENG/707.

Closing date: Open until filled.

Scholarships are not only for the smart students. Anyone can get scholarships

Spread the word to help others. Click share now!!