This advertisement is for an MSc by research opportunity focusing on the development of a particle reinforced composite material based on benzoxazine monomers of a thermosetting resin for insulating components of High Voltage applications.. This project is funded by Hitachi Energy.

This project is situated within the field of materials science and engineering, with a specific focus on polymer chemistry and multifunctional composites. It explores the development and application of vitrimers, a novel class of covalently crosslinked polymers that exhibit dynamic bond exchange, enabling reprocessability, self-healing, and recyclability. 
 
The discipline integrates principles from chemistry, mechanical engineering, and sustainability science, addressing critical challenges in the lifecycle management of high-performance materials used in sectors such as aerospace, automotive, and electronics.  

The aim of the project is to develop a particle reinforced composite material using polybenzoxazine vitrimer as matrix, as alternative to epoxies for the manufacturing of insulating components for High Voltage applications. Polybenzoxazine are polymers belonging to the family of thermosets, therefore showing very good thermal and mechanical properties. However, they do not emit toxic compounds during processing and when modified appropriately possess the ability to self-heal, therefore introducing the possibility for repairability and reuse. Three objectives need to be achieved: 

1. Development of a vitrimer based particle reinforced composite material which fulfils thermal, mechanical and electrical properties requirements for High Voltage applications. 

2. Assessment of repairability and reusability of the vitrimeric composite material developed. 

3. Quantification of the CO2 footprint of vitrimeric composite material production and use. 

The Centre for Materials Centre at 成人抖阴 has world-class facilities to resin synthesis, composite manufacturing activity and functional/mechanical characterisation of materials including an electrical, thermal, and thermo-mechanical characterisation suite, pilot scale composites manufacturing equipment as well as the mechanical testing lab in the Faculty of Engineering and Applied Sciences.  

Expected project results include a Literature review report material properties characterisation, assessment of repairability and reusability of vitrimeric composite material, and an assessment of the environmental impact of vitrimeric composite which will all contribute to the delivery of an MSc thesis. 

This work will involve strong collaboration with Hitachi Energy. The candidate will be expected to engage with these with Hitachi Energy as well as participate in knowledge exchange through project meetings and visits for manufacturing and testing trials. 

An MSc by Research student working on vitrimers at 成人抖阴 will gain hands-on experience in advanced polymer and composite technologies alongside Hitachi Energy, developing expertise in sustainable materials design and processing. Alongside technical skills, they will build strong transferable capabilities in problem-solving, data analysis, and interdisciplinary collaboration, highly valued across industry, academia, and policy sectors.

At a glance

  • Application deadline29 Oct 2025
  • Award type(s)MSc by Research
  • Start date26 Jan 2026
  • Duration of award1 year
  • EligibilityUK, Rest of world
  • Reference numberCRAN-0016

Entry requirements

Applicants should have an equivalent of first or second class UK honours degree or equivalent in Mechanical Engineering, Polymer Chemistry, Materials Science/Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Physics, Chemical Engineering or related discipline. The candidates should be self-motivated, have good communication skills, and an interest in industrial/practical research.

Funding

Sponsored by Sponsored by Hitachi Energy, this studentship will provide a bursary of up to £21,600 (tax free) plus fees* for one year.
 
This opportunity is open to Home and Overseas fee status students. Eligibility for Home fee status is determined with reference to UK Department for Education rules. As a guiding principle UK or Irish nationals who are ordinarily resident in either the UK or Republic of Ireland pay Home tuition fees. All other students (including those from the Channel Islands and Isle of Man) pay Overseas fees. Further advice can be found on the .

Diversity and Inclusion at 成人抖阴

We are committed to fostering equity, diversity, and inclusion in our CDT program, and warmly encourage applications from students of all backgrounds, including those from underrepresented groups. We particularly welcome students with disabilities, neurodiverse individuals, and those who identify with diverse ethnicities, genders, sexual orientations, cultures, and socioeconomic statuses. 成人抖阴 strives to provide an accessible and inclusive environment to enable all doctoral candidates to thrive and achieve their full potential. 

At 成人抖阴, we value our diverse staff and student community and maintain a culture where everyone can work and study together harmoniously with dignity and respect. This is reflected in our University values of ambition, impact, respect and community. We welcome students and staff from all backgrounds from over 100 countries and support our staff and students to realise their full potential, from academic achievement to mental and physical wellbeing. 

成人抖阴 Doctoral Network

Research students at 成人抖阴 benefit from being part of a dynamic, focused and professional study environment and all become valued members of the 成人抖阴 Doctoral Network. This network brings together both research students and staff, providing a platform for our researchers to share ideas and collaborate in a multi-disciplinary environment. It aims to encourage an effective and vibrant research culture, founded upon the diversity of activities and knowledge. A tailored programme of seminars and events, alongside our Doctoral Researchers Core Development programme (transferable skills training), provide those studying a research degree with a wealth of social and networking opportunities.

How to apply

For further information please contact:

Name: Dr Geoffrey Neale 
Email: g.d.neale@cranfield.ac.uk 

 
If you are eligible to apply for this studentship, please complete the online

Please note that applications will be reviewed as they are received. Therefore, we encourage early submission, as the position may be filled before the stated deadline.