PhD studentship in Nanomechanics for European (EEA) students

Cardiff
University, School of Engineering.
PhD studentships in
Nanomechanics

You will work on nanomechanical modelling of contact, friction and molecular
adhesion at the nano/micro-scales under the supervision of Prof. F.M. Borodich and
Prof. H.P. Evans.  The studies will be applied
to nanotribological systems that are governed by the physical processes applicable
at the nanoscale. These include adhesion caused by van der Waals interactions
and capillary effects, and various surface effects. Fundamental understanding
of nanoscale surface effects on contact, friction and wear processes is a
significant challenge and a key to success in this field.

The research topics of the PhD studies will be tailored to the interests and
background of the successful applicants. Topics of interest include: Mechanics of Adhesive Contact for Films and
Coatings, Adhesive Contact
between Brushed Surfaces, Biomimetic Solutions for Component Attachment and Detachment
in Precision Engineering Systems, and Attachment of Insects by Hairy Cuticles.

The PhD projects will focus on analytical and mathematical modelling and will
involve collaboration with research groups in Austria
(AC2T) and/or Germany (University of Kiel).

Applicants should have a First Class or 2:1 honours degree (or equivalent) in
engineering, physics or applied mathematics (or equivalent).

Funding information

Value: Home tuition fees and a full stipend (13,590
GBP in 2010/11)

Funding duration: 3 years

 Contacts and how to apply

Academic contact: Informal enquiries should be made to the
Professor F.M. Borodich, BorodichFM@Cardiff.ac.uk, Tel:+44(0)29 20875909 Web:
www.cardiff.ac.uk/engin

 Administrative contact and how to apply: For further details
or to apply formally please go to www.cardiff.ac.uk/apply
and apply with reference to (FMB-AC2T-11)

http://www.cardiff.ac.uk/engin/degreeprogrammes/research/currentstudentships/index.html