[School of Natural Sciences PhD Scholarships] G-LINES: Graphene-based Laser-machined Interfaces via Nano-Electroprocessing for Sensors

About the project

About the Project Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) is critical for ensuring the safety and operational longevity of advanced engineering structures, including aerospace composite components, wind energy systems, and civil infrastructure. Real-time detection of micro-scale deformations requires high-precision strain sensors that maintain stability and accuracy over millions of loading cycles. Graphene-based sensors offer remarkable sensitivity, but existing designs are often limited by signal lag, non-linear outputs, and baseline drift caused by material relaxation. The G-LINES project aims to overcome these limitations by developing a new generation of flexible micro-strain transducers using a hybrid advanced manufacturing approach. The project combines nano-electroprocessing, dynamically tuning electrospinning and electrospraying regimes to construct tailored conductive architectures, with ultrafast laser micromachining for high-precision patterning without thermal damage. As a PhD researcher on this project, you will: - Formulate novel graphene nanocomposite conductive inks and control their nano-scale deposition. - Utilize precision laser ablation to structure optimized sensor track geometries. - Conduct dynamic electromechanical characterization to evaluate sensitivity, linearity, and signal recovery under cyclic mechanical strain. - Validate sensor performance by integrating them onto real-world composite materials for structural damage monitoring. Working within the Department of Materials at The University of Manchester, you will gain hands-on expertise in advanced nanomaterial manufacturing, laser processing, signal analysis, and structural mechanics. This project provides an ideal balance of fundamental material science and applied engineering, equipping you with highly sought-after skills for careers in both academia and high-tech industry. 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 Materials Science and Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering or Physics OR any upper-second class (2:1) honours degree and a Master’s degree at merit (or international equivalent) in Materials Science and Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering or Physics. Previous research experience or interest in nanomaterials, sensor technology, structural mechanics, or laser micro-fabrication is highly desirable. 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