Improving Predictive Computer Modelling PHD

Make difference: help to design safer explosives by improving predictive computer models.

Explosives at room temperature are safe and stable, and when heated will ignite, burn and may even explode.  They also slowly decompose which changes both their physical and chemical properties. The slow decomposition of explosives will form the basis of the PhD where you will be responsible for generating computer models for these physical and chemical processes.

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Current finite element computer models cannot predict how explosives respond during accidents, because existing computer models are best suited to fast decomposition (at millisecond or microsecond time-scales). However, in an accident, decomposition of explosives can occur over much longer timescales, of the order of minutes or even hours.  

The proposed PhD project aims to develop extensions to existing computer models so that they are useful at lower temperatures and longer timescales. This studentship will involve computer modelling development and simulation, validated against data obtained from experimental observation. 

There is opportunity for collaboration, and travel to research organisations in the UK and with USA national laboratories.

At a glance

• Application deadline12 Aug 2020
• Award type(s)PhD
• Start dateAs soon as possible
• Duration of award4 years
• EligibilityUK, EU
• Reference numberCDS024

Entry requirements

Applicants should have a first or second class UK honours degree or equivalent in a related discipline. This project would suit an applicant with a physics or chemistry background, and a keen interest in the materials science of composites

Funding

Sponsored by DSTL, EPSRC and Cranfield University, this studentship will provide a bursary of up to £17,000 (tax free) plus fees* for 4 years.

To be eligible for this funding, applicants must be a UK national. We require that applicants are under no restrictions regarding how long they can stay in the UK i.e. have no visa restrictions or applicant has “settled status” and has been “ordinarily resident” in the UK for 3 years prior to start of studies and has not been residing in the UK wholly or mainly for the purpose of full-time education. (This does not apply to UK or EU nationals). Due to funding restrictions all EU nationals are eligible to receive a fees-only award if they do not have “settled status” in the UK.

About the sponsor
Sponsored by DSTL, EPSRC and Cranfield University, this studentship will provide a bursary of up to £17,000 (tax free) plus fees* for 4 years.
How to apply

For further information please contact: Dr Chris Stennett  or   Prof Jackie Akhavan

Email: [email protected] / [email protected]

For information about applications please contact: [email protected] 

If you are eligible to apply for this PhD, please complete the online application form.