PhD in Materials Science

Vision/nLaser processing is fundamental to advanced manufacturing, powering precision welding in battery manufacturing, high-performance turbine drilling, and cutting advanced materials for clean energy. However, the composition and application of assist gases, critical to these processes, have seen little innovation, limiting efficiency and sustainability. This PhD will advance laser processing by developing novel gas mixtures and supersonic nozzles, to improve speed, quality, and resource efficiency. The research aims to cut energy use, reduce waste, and lower carbon emissions, supporting sustainable manufacturing and the UK’s move toward a net-zero economy./n/nMotivation/nLead a pioneering project tackling real-world challenges in laser processing. You’ll work with advanced experimental setups to design and test novel multi-gas delivery systems that boost performance and sustainability of laser processing. A PhD is more than a qualification, it’s a launchpad for technical expertise, problem-solving, and leadership. You’ll work with industry on real-world applications, gain hands-on experience, and build a network that connects academia and industry, preparing you for a career in R&D at the forefront of advanced manufacturing and innovation./n/nAim/nThis PhD will advance gas-assisted laser processing by developing optimized gas mixtures and innovative delivery systems. You will study how gas chemistry and flow affect thermal behaviour, material quality, and efficiency. Outcomes include: High-performance gas mixtures for speed and sustainability; Advanced nozzle designs for precision and resource efficiency; Validated models to support industrial adoption./n/nLocation: Loughborough. Collaboration with Loughborough University's Optical Engineering Research Group and engineering teams at the Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC).