PhD studentship: Micromechanics of Grain-Interface Interactions; Soil-Structure Interaction

PhD studentship:
Micromechanics of Grain-Interface Interactions (Soil-Structure Interaction)

Join to apply for the PhD studentship at University of Nottingham
.

• Area:
  Engineering
• Location:
  
  UK Other
• Closing Date:
  Tuesday 24 February 2026
• Reference: ENG
  292

Are abrasive grains truly "indestructible"? Research in our leading experimental lab is challenging the traditional view of soil‑structure interaction (SSI). This project will investigate the critical role of changing particle shape on material wear and elevated stress transfer during continuous shearing, which impacts wind turbine foundations, underground pipelines, pharmaceutical manufacturing, and more. Sand is the most ubiquitous engineering material on earth, yet research cannot fully explain the interaction between sand and structural materials as they shear and cause abrasion.

This lack of understanding affects all granular problems, and so applicants do not necessarily require formal education in geotechnics.

• Background in mechanical or materials engineering.
• Alternatively, mathematics or computer science with an interest in numerical modelling.
• Civil engineering graduates with a focus on soil mechanics/geotechnics.

• Expert knowledge of experimental modelling challenges and solutions.
• Advanced programming, data analysis, and simulation skills.
• Effective communication of complex and novel research.
• Opportunities to develop lab demonstration and teaching experience.
• Confidence to deal with uncertainty and tackle any problem without a defined final answer.

• Data analysis skills in Python.
• Granular mechanics (geotechnics).
• Numerical modelling.

This studentship is available for UK nationals, or in exceptional circumstances for international applicants where the candidate has a strong application.

This position is fully funded for 3.5 years tuition and includes a tax‑free UKRI stipend of approximately £20,780. After a suitable candidate is found, funding is then sought from the University of Nottingham as part of a competitive process.

Interested applicants can find out more by contacting me via email:
an with the subject line "Interface Micromechanics PhD".