Janice Barton

This PhD project, sponsored by Rolls-Royce, focuses on the fatigue and fracture characterisation of 3D-woven textile composites—a key technology for advancing Net Zero Transport through lightweight, efficient structures. 3D-woven composites offer significant advantages over traditional 2D laminated materials, including enhanced impact energy absorption, greater resistance to delamination, improved manufacturing efficiency, and reduced waste via near net-shape preforms. However, fundamental research is needed to understand the unique failure modes of these materials and to develop advanced observation techniques for material behaviour. The research will be conducted at the University of Bristol, with funded secondments to Imperial College London, providing a collaborative and interdisciplinary environment. The project aims to: Provide a comprehensive understanding of how 3D woven materials fail Develop high fidelity tools and techniques for identifying material failure Support in-service failure investigations by devising rapid observation methods Demonstrate these techniques on manufactured materials and components Students will gain expertise in characterising material behaviour and developing innovative tools to improve manufacturing and design processes, supporting sustainable aviation and advanced engineering applications. The Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT) in Innovation for Sustainable Composites Engineering offers a dynamic research environment, with strong industry links and opportunities for professional development. Eligibility: Home and international students are welcome, subject to security clearance. Applicants should have a strong background in engineering, materials science, or a related discipline. Required documents include a personal statement outlining relevant experience and motivation, a CV, and a transcript of results. Funding: The position is fully funded by the CDT in Innovation for Sustainable Composites Engineering, with sponsorship from Rolls-Royce. Funding covers tuition fees and a stipend for eligible students. Application Process: Apply via the University of Bristol postgraduate portal. Include the project title in your application, select 'PhD in Advanced Composites,' and list Professor Janice Barton as the second supervisor. Indicate that funding is provided by the CDT. The application deadline is April 17, 2026. For further information, contact Professor Janice Barton at janice.barton@bristol.ac.uk.

Doctoral Training opportunity in Innovation in Sustainable Composites Engineering at the University of Bristol and University of Nottingham , with projects starting in January 2027 . This call is aimed at students interested in composites engineering , sustainable materials , composite manufacturing , artificial intelligence , and model-based systems engineering . The programme offers industry-sponsored PhD/EngD projects focused on sustainable and efficient solutions for composite structures, manufacturing routes, design concepts, analysis procedures, recycling, and digital engineering tools. Funding includes a tax-free enhanced annual stipend of £27,805 plus a tuition fees waiver . The CDT also notes industrial collaboration and structured professional development, with some projects involving placements or extended work in industrial settings. Example project themes include sustainable and fire-retardant polymer damping materials and recycling methods for marine applications, double diaphragm forming for sustainable composites manufacturing, artificial intelligence for systems engineering, adaptive 4D printing materials, and novel design/manufacturing concepts for aerostructures. Eligibility depends on the specific project. One project is open to UK citizens only subject to security clearance; another is open to Home/permanent UK residents subject to security clearance. Applicants are generally asked to submit a personal statement , CV , and transcript of results . For some projects, applicants must include the project title and select the relevant EngD route; for others, the project description is not required. The application deadline is 30 July 2026 . Applicants should use the university application portal and follow the project-specific instructions, including supervisor details where requested.