Self-funded PhD's and MSc's in Advanced Mechanical/Material Engineering areas

There are open PhD and MSc by Research positions (self-funded) available in the Centre for Energy Engineering at Cranfield University. These doctoral research vacancies focus on the development of novel hydrogen storage tanks with porous/cellular metamaterial cores. Applications of this research will be in energy supply for transportation and home systems.

This project lies at the intersection of advanced materials science, mechanical and aerospace engineering, and energy systems, with a specific focus on the design and development of multifunctional metamaterials. These engineered materials exhibit unique mechanical, thermal, and acoustic properties not found in nature, making them ideal for next-generation hydrogen storage technologies.

Hydrogen is widely recognised as a key enabler of the global transition to net-zero emissions, particularly in hard-to-decarbonise sectors like aerospace and automotive. Safe, lightweight, and efficient hydrogen storage remains a major challenge, and this project addresses that by developing novel metamaterial-based tank designs with enhanced performance characteristics.

The research also extends to transformative applications in vibration and noise control, energy harvesting, and other multidisciplinary domains, increasing its relevance across various engineering sectors and contributing to more sustainable, efficient, and intelligent systems.

The primary focus is the design, development, and performance evaluation of novel multifunctional metamaterials for application in next-generation hydrogen storage systems, specifically targeting the aerospace and automotive sectors. The aim is to engineer advanced metamaterials offering enhanced mechanical strength, thermal stability, and multifunctionality, enabling lighter, safer, and more efficient hydrogen storage tanks.

In parallel, the project also aims to explore broader applications including:
• Noise and vibration control in transport and industrial systems
• Energy harvesting to support self-powered systems
• Cross-disciplinary integration enabling smart structures and systems across engineering domains

Scientific and Technological Impact:
• Development of novel multifunctional metamaterials with tailored mechanical, thermal, and acoustic properties suitable for demanding environments.
• Innovation in hydrogen storage technologies, offering safer, lighter, and more efficient tank designs for automotive and aerospace applications.
• Cross-functional material designs enabling new approaches to vibration damping, noise suppression, and energy harvesting in integrated systems.
• Generation of new knowledge in metamaterial design, modelling, and experimental validation.

Industrial and Societal Relevance:
• Acceleration of hydrogen technology adoption in clean transport by addressing key engineering barriers in storage and safety.
• Contribution to the global agenda of energy decarbonisation and net-zero emissions.
• Potential spin-off applications across automotive, aerospace, infrastructure, and renewable energy sectors.
• Development of skilled researchers with interdisciplinary expertise in advanced materials, energy systems, and sustainable engineering.

Entry Requirements:
Applicants should have a first or second class UK honours degree or equivalent in a related discipline. This project would suit someone with a general background in mechanical or materials engineering.

Funding:
This is a self-funded research opportunity. Applicants will need to cover their own tuition fees and living expenses.

Cranfield Doctoral Network:
Research students at Cranfield benefit from being part of a dynamic, focused, and professional study environment and become valued members of the Cranfield Doctoral Network. This Network brings together research students and staff, providing a platform to share ideas, identify collaboration opportunities, and create communities of practice.

Doctoral Researchers' Core Development (DRCD) Programme:
As a research student at Cranfield, you will be expected to attend the DRCD programme comprising four one-week units covering key stages of your research journey. Workshops are held face to face, providing opportunities to network and collaborate with peers.