University of Sussex (US) The Microstructure and Defect Control scholarship offers a fully funded PhD studentship at the University of Sussex, focusing on the microstructure and defect control in recycled aluminium alloys. Starting in January 2027, this project investigates how grain refinement, iron impurities, and solidification defects can be managed to improve secondary aluminium casting. The successful candidate will work closely with the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) and an industrial partner to enable greater use of recycled materials without compromising performance.
The University of Sussex is a leading UK research institution known for its interdisciplinary approach and commitment to sustainability. The School of Engineering and Informatics provides advanced facilities for materials characterisation and casting. Supervised by Dr. Shikang Feng, this studentship offers access to cutting-edge techniques such as electron microscopy and synchrotron imaging, alongside pilot-scale industrial trials, creating an ideal environment for impactful doctoral research.
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University of Sussex (US) Microstructure and Defect Controlol Benefits
- £21,805 annual tax-free stipend for 3.5 years
- Tuition fees waived at UK or international rates
- £2,000 Research and Training Support Grant
- International research and collaboration opportunities
- Access to advanced materials research facilities
- Supervision from an experienced academic researcher
- Potential collaboration with NTNU and an industrial aluminium producer
University of Sussex (US) Microstructure and Defect Control Eligibility Criteria
- Open to both UK and overseas (international) applicants
- Normally hold or expect to obtain an upper second-class (2:1) undergraduate honours degree or equivalent in a related field such as materials science, metallurgy, mechanical engineering, or closely related area
- Meet the University’s English language requirements if your first language is not English
Application Requirements for
University of Sussex (US) Microstructure and Defect Control
- A research proposal
- Curriculum vitae
- Degree certificates and academic transcripts
- Two references, including at least one from an institution attended within the past five years
- Evidence of meeting the University’s English language requirements, where applicable
How to Apply for
University of Sussex (US) Microstructure and Defect Control?
- Apply online for a full-time PhD in Engineering for January 2027 entry via the university’s step-by-step guide
- Prepare and submit a research proposal
- Upload your CV
- Upload degree certificates and transcripts
- Provide two references, including one from an institution you have studied at within the last 5 years
- If applicable, demonstrate that you meet the English language requirements
- Clearly state on your application that you are applying for the Full-funded PhD Studentship on Microstructure and Defect Control in Recycled Aluminium Alloys under the supervision of Dr. Shikang Feng
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are answers to common questions about the Microstructure and Defect Control fully funded PhD studentship at the University of Sussex. This covers eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and the application process.
What is University of Sussex (US) Microstructure and Defect Control Microstructure and Defect Control PhD studentship?
It is a fully funded doctoral project at the University of Sussex exploring how grain refinement, iron impurities, and casting defects can be controlled in recycled aluminium alloys. The research involves collaboration with NTNU and an industrial aluminium producer, using advanced characterisation and pilot-scale casting trials to improve secondary alloy performance.
Who is eligible to apply for this
University of Sussex (US) Microstructure and Defect Control scholarship?
The studentship is open to both UK and overseas applicants. Candidates should normally hold an upper second-class (2:1) undergraduate honours degree or equivalent in materials science, metallurgy, mechanical engineering, or a closely related discipline. International applicants must meet the University’s English language requirements.
What are the scholarship benefits and funding?
You will receive a tax-free stipend of £21,805 per year for 3.5 years, a full tuition fee waiver (at either the UK or international rate), and a one-off Research and Training Support Grant of £2,000. This makes the studentship fully funded for both home and international students.
What is the application deadline?
The deadline for applications is 2 October 2026 at 23:45 GMT. Late submissions will not be considered. Interviews are scheduled for after 19 October 2026, and the PhD start date is 4 January 2027.
How do I apply for this PhD?
Apply online through the University of Sussex PhD application portal for a full-time PhD in Engineering for January 2027 entry. You must include a research proposal, CV, degree certificates and transcripts, two references, and English language evidence if required. State clearly that you are applying for this specific studentship under Dr. Shikang Feng.
What documents are required for the application?
You need a research proposal outlining your interest and approach, your CV, degree certificates and transcripts, two references (at least one from an institution you attended in the last five years). If your first language is not English, you must provide proof of meeting the University’s English language requirements.
When does the PhD programme start?
The programme begins on 4 January 2027. Successful applicants will join the School of Engineering and Informatics at the University of Sussex for a January entry.
Is the studentship open to international students?
Yes, the studentship is available to both UK and overseas (international) applicants. International tuition fees are fully covered in addition to the stipend, making it a true fully funded opportunity for candidates from any country.
Who supervises the project?
The project is supervised by Dr. Shikang Feng within the School of Engineering and Informatics at the University of Sussex. You will also collaborate with researchers at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) and an industry partner.
What research techniques will I use during the PhD?
You will employ scanning and transmission electron microscopy (SEM-EDX, EBSD, TEM), synchrotron X-ray imaging, mechanical testing, and laboratory-scale and pilot-scale casting experiments. These methods will help investigate microstructure development and defect susceptibility in recycled aluminium alloys.
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