Project details
Join the Polymer Group at Department of Materials Loughborough University, one of the UK’s top institutions renowned for its excellence in research and teaching, as well as its global reputation in sports science and engineering. This studentship offers a unique opportunity to work within a world-class research environment, benefiting from cutting-edge facilities and a collaborative academic community.
This exciting research project focuses on developing bio-based sustainable materials that autonomously manage body temperature, monitor thermal changes, enhance comfort, and support environmental sustainability. By integrating advanced materials science with sports technology, this interdisciplinary project targets innovative solutions for the next generation of wearable sportswear.
Why choose Loughborough University?
- World-Leading Research: Ranked in the top 10 in major UK league tables, Loughborough excels in engineering and materials science research.
- State-of-the-Art Facilities: Access to advanced materials processing and testing equipment.
- Supportive Environment: Collaborate with leading academic and industrial partners.
- Career Opportunities: Successful completion of this project will position you strongly for roles in academia and industry.
What You’ll Do
- Develop and test bio-based polymer (nano)composites.
- Explore their application in sportswear for dynamic thermal management.
- Work as part of a supportive and innovative team to deliver impactful research.
94% of Loughborough’s research impact is rated world-leading or internationally excellent. REF 2021
Supervisors
Primary supervisor: Dr Yi Liu
Secondary supervisor: Dr Fiona Hatton
Entry requirements
Our entry requirements are listed using standard UK undergraduate degree classifications i.e. first-class honours, upper second-class honours and lower second-class honours. To learn the equivalent for your country, please choose it from the drop-down below.
Entry requirements for United Kingdom
Applicants should have, or expect to achieve, at least a 2:1 Honours degree (or equivalent) in Materials Science, Physical Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Biomaterials, Bioengineering, or a related subject.
A relevant Master’s degree and/or experience in polymer processing, polymer extrusion and compression moulding, materials characterisation, and nanomaterials like carbon nanotubes and graphene nanoplatelets would be an advantage.
Experience in using software like LabVIEW for data acquisition and analysis, and knowledge on smart materials with self-regulating heating capabilities as well as a good knowledge of polymer physics, are desirable.
English language requirements
Applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Further details are available on the International website.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees for 2025-26 entry
UK fee
Fully funded Full-time degree per annum
International fee
Fully funded Full-time degree per annum
Fees for the 2025-26 academic year apply to projects starting in October 2025.
Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching, assessment and operating University facilities such as the library, IT equipment and other support services. University fees and charges can be paid in advance and there are several methods of payment, including online payments and payment by instalment. Fees are reviewed annually and are likely to increase to take into account inflationary pressures.
The studentship is for 3 years and provides a tax-free stipend of £19,237 per annum for the duration of the studentship plus university tuition fees.
How to apply
All applications should be made online. Under programme name, select *AACME/ Materials*. Please quote the advertised reference number: * AACME-24-046* in your application.
To avoid delays in processing your application, please ensure that you submit the minimum supporting documents.
The following selection criteria will be used by academic schools to help them make a decision on your application.
