PhD Studentship in Materials Engineering

University of Nottingham

Area

Engineering

Location

UK Other

Closing Date

Wednesday 19 August 2026

Reference

ENG403

ABA Laser Cladding

ABA cladding is a variant of laser cladding that was recently developed at the University of Nottingham. By generating clad coatings by first depositing parallel but separated “A” clads and then filling in the valleys formed with “B” clads, improved material deposition efficiencies compared to conventional cladding have already been demonstrated.

Project Overview

This project will expand understanding of the full potential of ABA cladding. There are many aspects that can be explored, and these can be tailored according to the specific interests of the successful candidate.

Potential research areas include:

  • Multi-material clads, where the A clads are formed from a different material to the B clads
  • Control of final surface topography
  • Generation of functionally graded coatings
  • Inclusion of pre-placed elements
  • Development of a process model

Facilities and Training

This project directly benefits from:

  • Recently upgraded laser materials processing facilities
  • Extensive suite of materials characterisation equipment

This largely experimental PhD will provide transferable materials characterisation skills, including:

  • Optical microscopy
  • Scanning electron microscopy

You will also develop advanced communication skills through:

  • Conference presentations
  • Journal publications

This PhD is expected to produce a larger than average number of journal publications.

Candidate Requirements

Applicants must be:

  • A university graduate, or expecting to graduate
  • With at least a 2.1 (or international equivalent)
  • Or a Masters at merit level or above

Relevant subjects:

  • Engineering
  • Physics
  • Materials Science
  • Closely related disciplines

Funding

This is a self-funded PhD opportunity.

You must secure funding for:

  • Tuition fees
  • Maintenance (living costs)

Funding may be obtained:

  • Privately
  • Or via external/government scholarships

Eligibility and Application

  • Open to UK and international candidates
  • Project open until filled

To apply, email Dr Katy Voisey with:

  • Cover letter
  • CV
  • Academic transcripts

More Information

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