Research Studentship in the Influence of Build Parameters on the Dynamic Behaviour of Additively Manufactured Materials

3.5-year D.Phil. studentship

Project: Modelling electro-chemo-mechanical couplings in Solid-State Batteries

Supervisors: Prof Daniel Eakins, Dr David Chapman

Additive manufacturing (AM) presents a transformative opportunity for materials operating in extreme dynamic environments. As AM transitions from a novel fabrication method to a mainstream engineering technology, understanding how processing influences mechanical behaviour under impact becomes increasingly important. Despite rapid advances in processing–microstructure characterisation, relatively little work has systematically linked build parameters to high-rate mechanical response, accounting for the defects, anisotropy and residual stresses inherent to the AM process.

In this project, you will investigate how AM build parameters influence the quasi-static and dynamic mechanical behaviour of metallic alloys. The work will combine controlled fabrication with detailed microstructural characterisation (including electron microscopy and residual stress measurement) and mechanical testing across a wide range of strain-rates. Using advanced experimental platforms within the Impact and Shock Mechanics Laboratory, you will generate new data to underpin the development of processing-aware constitutive models for AM materials, ultimately enabling more reliable and predictive design of this emerging class of materials.

This project offers the opportunity to undertake ground-breaking research in the field of shock-physics, involving elements of materials science, mechanics, and ultrafast diagnostics. You will be based at Begbroke Science Park as part of the Impact and Shock Mechanics group, composed of more than 30 researchers and students.

Eligibility

This studentship is fully funded by AWE, and is open to UK students (full award – fees plus stipend).

Award Value

Course fees are covered at the level set for UK students. The stipend (tax-free maintenance grant) is set at the UKRI minimum, and at least this amount for a further 2.5 years.

Candidate Requirements

Prospective candidates will be judged according to how well they meet the following criteria: 

• A first-class or strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours in Materials Science, Engineering, or Physics
• A good understanding of the mechanics of materials
• Excellent English written and spoken communication skills

The following skills are also highly desirable:

• Ability to program in Matlab, python or similar
• Strong laboratory-based skills

Application Procedure

Informal enquiries are encouraged and should be addressed to Prof Daniel Eakins (daniel.eakins@eng.ox.ac.uk).

Candidates must submit a graduate application form and are expected to meet the graduate admissions criteria.

Details are available on the course page of the University website.

Please quote 26ENGMM_DE4 in all correspondence and in your graduate application.

Application deadline: noon on 27 March 2026

Start date: October 2026