[School of Natural Sciences PhD Scholarships] Soft Materials for Next-Generation Heating and Cooling

About the project

About the Project Could stretching rubber help transform how we heat our homes and cool the world’s data centres? This PhD will explore a new approach to heating and cooling: flexible networks that use soft materials to both control temperature and pump fluid, combining two essential functions within a single system. At its heart are elastocaloric materials, such as natural rubber, which heat up when stretched and cool down when released. Harnessing this effect could open the door to efficient, affordable alternatives to conventional refrigeration and heat pumps, helping tackle the global challenge of sustainable heating and cooling. You will investigate how material behaviour, fluid flow and heat transfer interact, and design and test soft microfluidic devices that turn these insights into working technologies. Along the way, you will develop expertise in materials characterisation, microfabrication, experimental design, data analysis and research communication, taking an emerging concept from fundamental science towards practical impact. This project is expected to start in September 2027. Before you apply: We strongly recommend that you contact the supervisors for this project before you apply. How to apply: To be considered for this project you must complete a formal application through our online application portal. If you already have an applicant account this link will directly open an application for PhD School of Natural Sciences Scholarships . If you don’t already have an applicant account, please follow the instructions here . When applying, please specify the full title and supervisor/s of the project, details of your previous study, and names and contact details of two referees. You must also upload a Supporting Statement describing your motivation to apply to the project, your CV and transcripts of awarded and in-progress university qualifications . Please note late or incomplete applications will not be considered. Equality, diversity and inclusion are fundamental to the success of The University of Manchester and central to all our activities. A diverse research community strengthens creativity, productivity and quality, while increasing the societal and economic impact of our work. We welcome applicants from all career paths, backgrounds and sections of the community, regardless of age, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation or transgender status. We welcome applications from candidates returning to study after a career break or experience in other roles. Flexible study arrangements may be available, including part-time study at 50%, 60% or 80%, subject to the requirements of the project and funder. Eligibility : The standard academic entry requirement for this PhD is an upper second-class (2:1) honours degree (or international equivalent) in Physics, Engineering, Materials Science or Chemistry OR any upper-second class (2:1) honours degree and a Master’s degree at merit (or international equivalent) in Physics, Engineering, Materials Science or Chemistry. This project will remain open until filled. If your application is submitted by 1 st November 2026, you can expect a decision by 18 th December 2026. If your application is submitted by 15 th January 2027, you can expect a decision by 30 th March 2027. Self or externally funded students can also be considered for this project. FSESoNS

Research areas