Science and Engineering: Fully Funded PhD EPSRC Studentship in advanced numerical methods for curing process simulation of fibre-reinforced composites (RS717)

Funding provider(s): EPSRC-DTP (50%), Faculty of Science and Engineering (50%)

Subject area(s): Computational mechanics; Engineering simulation

Project start date(s) (please delete as applicable):

· 1 January 2025

· 1 April 2025

· 1 July 2025

Supervisors:

· Dr. Xi Zou

· Prof. Wulf Dettmer

Aligned programme of study: PhD in Aerospace Engineering

Mode of study:  Full-time

Project Description

This PhD project focuses on computational mechanics. It seeks to advance the development of numerical methods for curing process simulation of fibre-reinforced composite materials, especially the carbon fibre-reinforced polymer (CFRP). CFRP composites have gained prominence in industries such as aerospace and automotive due to their exceptional strength-to-weight ratio and highly flexible designability.
Curing process is the crucial stage in manufacturing the CFRP composites with thermoset matrix. It is known that the manufactured components often contains non-negligible deviations from the nominal geometry, due to the residual stresses accumulated from the curing process. Therefore, optimising the design and analysis of CFRP structures requires a deep understanding of the complex curing process behaviour and intricate computational models. Currently, the complete simulation workflow for curing process modelling of CFRP composites is time consuming as it relies heavily on manual iterations.

This project aims to develop reliable computational tools to minimise the gap between designed geometry and manufactured geometry for the composites, incorporating state-of-the-art computational techniques, such as high-order finite element methods, reduced order modelling and machine learning. The development of the tools will require significant amount of computer programming using Python, C/C++ and Fortran. The candidate will also have the opportunity to produce CFRP specimens for experimental tests. The successful candidate is expected to master state-of-the-art advances in computational mechanics to push forward the boundaries of CFRP simulation techniques, fostering innovation and sustainability in industries that rely on the CFRP material. The research will also help shape the future of CFRP simulation progress in engineering design and manufacturing.

This scholarship covers the full cost of tuition fees and an annual stipend at UKRI rate (currently £19,237 for 2024/25).

Additional research expenses of up to £3,000 will also be available.

To apply, please complete your application online with the following information:

1. Course choice – please select as per preferred start date, either –

   *For January 2025 start select:

   Aerospace Engineering/ PhD / Full-time / 3 Years / January

   OR

   *For April 2025 start select:

   Aerospace Engineering/ PhD / Full-time / 3 Years / April

   OR

   *For July 2025 start select:

   Aerospace Engineering/ PhD / Full-time / 3 Years / July. 

In the event you have already applied for the above programme previously, the application system may issue a warning notice and prevent application, in this event, please email pgrscholarships@swansea.ac.uk where staff will be happy to assist you in submitting your application.

1. Start year – please select 2025
2. Funding (page 8 on the application process) –

• ‘Are you funding your studies yourself?’ – please select No
• ‘Name of Individual or organisation providing funds for study’ – please enter ‘RS717′

*It is the responsibility of the applicant to list the above information accurately when applying, please note that applications received without the above information listed will not be considered for the scholarship award.

One application is required per individual Swansea University led research scholarship award; applications cannot be considered listing multiple Swansea University led research scholarship awards.

NOTE: Applicants for PhD/EngD/ProfD/EdD – to support our commitment to providing an environment free of discrimination and celebrating diversity at Swansea University you are required to complete an Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Monitoring Form in addition to your programme application form.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Monitoring Form (online form)

Please note that completion of the EDI Monitoring Form is mandatory; your application may not progress if this information is not submitted.

As part of your online application, you MUST upload the following documents (please do not send these via email):

• CV
• Degree certificates and transcripts (if you are currently studying for a degree, screenshots of your grades to date are sufficient)
• A cover letter including a ‘Supplementary Personal Statement’ to explain why the position particularly matches your skills and experience and how you choose to develop the project.
• Two references (academic or previous employer) on headed paper or using the Swansea University reference form. Please note that we are not able to accept references received citing private email accounts, e.g. Hotmail. Referees should cite their employment email address for verification of reference.
• Evidence of meeting English Language requirement (if applicable).
• Copy of UK resident visa (if applicable)
• Confirmation of EDI form submission

For ALL scholarship applications from February 2023 an EDI (Equality, Diversity and Inclusion) Monitoring Form is required.

Informal enquiries are welcome; please contact Dr. Xi Zou xi.zou@swansea.ac.uk

*External Partner Application Data Sharing – Please note that as part of the scholarship application selection process, application data sharing may occur with external partners outside of the University, when joint/co- funding of a scholarship project is applicable.