Job Summary Table of PhD Studentship: Impact Failure of Amorphous Polymers

Job Description Summary

The University of Nottingham is offering a fully funded 3-year PhD studentship to study the impact failure of amorphous polymers in collaboration with the University of Oxford. This exciting opportunity combines modeling and experimental work to advance understanding of polymer behavior under ballistic impact.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement failure criteria for existing polymer constitutive models
• Implement user materials in finite element software
• Validate material models and failure criteria using experimental data
• Collaborate with Oxford University partners to design experiments and simulations
• Explore effects of residual stresses and thermal/surface treatments on polymer failure
• Contribute to the development of material models for computer simulations of ballistic events

Benefits and Perks

• Full funding for UK students (home fees and stipend)
• Course fees covered at £4,786 per annum
• Tax-free stipend of approximately £20,000 per annum for the first year, with at least this amount for two additional years
• Opportunity to work on cutting-edge research with real-world applications
• Collaboration with leading researchers at the University of Nottingham and University of Oxford

Company Overview

The University of Nottingham is a world-class institution known for its excellence in research and teaching. As part of the Russell Group, it is committed to maintaining the very best research, an outstanding teaching and learning experience, and unrivaled links with business and the public sector.

Company Culture

The University of Nottingham fosters a supportive, inclusive, and caring community. The Faculty of Engineering, where this studentship is based, was the first in the UK to be awarded an Athena SWAN Gold Award, recognizing its commitment to supporting and advancing women’s careers in Engineering.

Career Growth Opportunities

This PhD studentship offers excellent opportunities for career development in academia or industry. The interdisciplinary nature of the project, combining materials science, engineering, and computational modeling, provides a strong foundation for various career paths in research, development, or advanced engineering roles.

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging

The University of Nottingham is committed to creating an environment that promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion. They encourage applications from a diverse range of backgrounds and strive to create a welcoming and supportive atmosphere for all students and staff.

Equal Opportunity Statement

The University of Nottingham is an equal opportunity employer and educational institution. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Remote Work Policy

This PhD studentship requires on-site presence at the University of Nottingham, with potential visits to the University of Oxford for collaborative work. However, some aspects of the research may allow for flexible working arrangements, subject to discussion with the supervisor.

Application Process

1. Review the eligibility criteria and required qualifications
2. Prepare a cover letter, CV, and academic transcripts
3. Send application materials to Dr. Davide De Focatiis (davide.defocatiis@nottingham.ac.uk)
4. Await response for potential interview or further information requests

Application Deadline

The position is open until filled, with a preferred start date of October 2024 or as soon as possible thereafter.

How to Apply

Interested candidates are strongly encouraged to make informal enquiries before applying. To apply, please send your cover letter, CV, and academic transcripts to Dr. Davide De Focatiis at davide.defocatiis@nottingham.ac.uk.

FAQs or Additional Information

Q: What is the focus of this research project?

A: The project aims to study the failure of amorphous polymers under impact, combining modeling at the University of Nottingham with experimental development at the University of Oxford. The ultimate goal is to provide models to understand and simulate phenomena observed in polymers under impact, considering the effect of different polymer histories.

Q: What background is required for this studentship?

A: Ideal candidates should have a first-class honours degree (or equivalent) in Engineering, Physics, or Materials Science. Excellent numerical skills, experience with finite element codes (preferably Abaqus), and programming abilities (preferably in Matlab) are highly desirable.

Q: Is this studentship open to international students?

A: This studentship is fully funded at the Home student (UK residents only) level. International applicants should check their eligibility before applying.

Q: What are the career prospects after completing this PhD?

A: Graduates from this program will be well-positioned for careers in academic research, industrial R&D, or advanced engineering roles in sectors such as materials science, polymer engineering, and computational modeling.

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