Process Development for Scalable and Sustainable Fibre Alignment

Are you interested in pursuing a PhD at the University of Edinburgh? We seek a highly motivated student to join an ongoing, industry-linked research programme on fibre-alignment technologies to produce truly circular composites. Complementing process-development efforts in the parent project, you will work within an interdisciplinary team to quantify process metrics and undertake parametric tuning and sustainability evaluation.

The circular fibre products emerging from the parent project are intended to integrate within the existing composites value chain and deliver strong fibre-matrix interfacial performance. Drawing on manufacturing, sustainability, materials science and process-engineering insights, your research will inform targeted process refinement efforts within the wider research programme towards addressing current industrial pain points (high energy footprint and low productivity). 

Collaborative links with Gen 2 Carbon, Sigmatex and Teijin Europe in the parent project provide exciting opportunities for knowledge-exchange activities and technical site visits during the project.

Project Objectives

1. Quantify baseline process metrics (energy use, alignment efficiency, throughput, yield, etc.) across existing waste-fibre alignment workflows using partner and laboratory data.
2. Conduct parametric studies to assess how workflow-specific inputs affect alignment, productivity, and energy demand.
3. Develop discrete event simulation (DES) models of integrated workflows under alternative process scenarios to explore capacity, bottlenecks, energy load and cost sensitivity.
4. Integrate life-cycle & cost-carbon analyses with DES outputs to identify hotspots, quantify improvement potential and generate scale-up decision metrics for industry partners.

Early application is advised as the position will be filled once a suitable candidate is identified.

Training

As a PhD student, you will take part in a wide range of research activities, including collaboration with international researchers and participation in conferences, workshops and seminars. You will work closely with fellow researchers within the Institute for Materials and Processes (IMP) at the University of Edinburgh’s School of Engineering. Regular meetings and collaborative interactions across the group will provide valuable opportunities for technical exchange and peer learning. 

You will have access to tailored professional development opportunities through the Institute for Academic Development, and technical training will be provided as needed to support your experimental and analytical work. Close alignment with the parent project and its industry partners will facilitate site visits and knowledge exchange activities, enhancing the real-world relevance of your research. 

Note that only applications via the University’s online system will be considered. All applications should include the following documents: 

• 2–3-page research proposal
• 1-page motivation letter/personal statement
• Curriculum vitae
• Degree transcripts/certificates

•   For any enquiries, please contact: Dr Winifred Obande (w.obande@ed.ac.uk)

•   The University of Edinburgh is committed to equality of opportunity for all its staff and students and promotes a culture of inclusivity. Details: https://www.ed.ac.uk/equality-diversity

•   Supervisor home page https://eng.ed.ac.uk/about/people/dr-wini-obande

Minimum entry qualification - an Honours degree at 2:1 or above (or International equivalent) in a relevant science or engineering discipline, possibly supported by an MSc Degree. Further information on English language requirements for EU/Overseas applicants.

We welcome applications from enthusiastic, self-driven and resourceful candidates with a first-class or upper 2:1 UK Honours degree (or international equivalent) in one of the following disciplines:

• Chemical, Mechanical or Manufacturing Engineering
• Systems/Industrial Engineering
• Environmental Engineering
• Any closely related disciplines to the above

Other Essential Requirements:

• 3D CAD proficiency, ideally using Solid Edge, Creo, or SolidWorks.
• Demonstrable experimental laboratory competence and analytical skills.
• University of Edinburgh English-language entry requirements apply.

Desirable Requirements:

• MSc/MEng (or equivalent) in a related field.
• Design of Experiments (DoE) and statistical modelling experience.
• Experience with DES or process modelling tools.
• Familiarity with LCA or cost-carbon analysis (or willingness to learn).
• Some coding experience, ideally in Python or MATLAB.

Further information and other funding options.

There is no funding available for this project, and no additional financial support can be provided. Only self-funded applicants will be considered. If you have your own funding (including government sponsorships), we warmly encourage you to apply.