About the Project
Supervisor: Dr Elena Sitnikova
This PhD project will develop advanced computational methods to characterise and design lattice metamaterials with tailored mechanical properties. Combining computational modelling, high-performance computing, additive manufacturing, and experimental validation, the research will deliver design tools for next-generation engineered materials, with potential applications in aerospace, biomedical engineering, robotics, and advanced manufacturing.
Advances in additive manufacturing have led to the rapid development of a new class of advanced materials known as lattice metamaterials. Unlike conventional materials, their internal architecture can be tailored to achieve exceptional combinations of stiffness, strength, energy absorption, and lightweight performance.
These unique capabilities give lattice metamaterials enormous potential for applications in aerospace, biomedical engineering, robotics, and many other areas of advanced engineering.
Despite this promise, designing lattice metamaterials with targeted mechanical properties remains a major scientific challenge. Virtually infinite design space associated with lattice architectures makes traditional trial-and-error approaches to material design and experimental testing prohibitively costly and time-consuming. Robust computational tools for material characterisation will transform this process by enabling reliable virtual testing, thus accelerating the design of novel lattice structures. This will advance the practical adoption of these next-generation engineered materials.
This PhD project will develop advanced methodology for the characterisation and design of lattice metamaterials.
Using finite element modelling and high-performance computing, you will develop material characterisation tools, investigate the influence of lattice geometry on mechanical behaviour, and validate your simulations through experiments using state-of-the-art additive manufacturing and mechanical testing facilities.
You will join a multidisciplinary research environment with access to world-class computational and experimental facilities. The project offers an excellent opportunity to contribute to the rapidly expanding field of architected materials while developing the knowledge and practical skills required for careers in computational engineering, advanced manufacturing, materials research, and other high-technology research and industries.
Entry requirements
You must have a UK 2:1 honours degree or its international equivalent in mechanical engineering or a closely related subject.
You must have:
- experience in finite element methods (Abaqus)
- experience in programming (including Python, Matlab, Fortran) or enthusiasm and commitment to carrying out programming
Ideally you will have:
- good mathematical skills
Fees and funding
We offer a range of funding opportunities for both UK and international students. Horizon Europe fee waivers automatically cover the difference between overseas and UK fees for qualifying students.
Competition-based Presidential Bursaries from the University cover the difference between overseas and UK fees for top-ranked applicants.
Competition-based studentships offered by our schools typically cover UK-level tuition fees and a stipend for living costs for top-ranked applicants.
Funding will be awarded on a rolling basis, so apply early for the best opportunity to be considered.
For more information, please visit our postgraduate research funding pages.
How to apply
You need to:
- choose programme type (Research), 2026/27, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences
- select Full time or Part time
- choose the relevant PhD Engineering & the Environment (7175)
- add name of the supervisor in section 2 of the application
Applications should include:
- your CV (resumé)
- 2 academic references
- degree transcripts and certificates to date
- English language qualification (if applicable)
Contact us
Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences
If you have a general question, doctoralcollege-admissions@soton.ac.uk.
Project leader
For an initial conversation, elena.sitnikova@soton.ac.uk.
The School of Engineering is committed to promoting equality, diversity inclusivity as demonstrated by our Athena SWAN award. We welcome all applicants regardless of their gender, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation or age, and will give full consideration to applicants seeking flexible working patterns and those who have taken a career break. The University has a generous maternity policy, onsite childcare facilities, and offers a range of benefits to help ensure employees’ well-being and work-life balance. The University of Southampton is committed to sustainability and has been awarded the Platinum EcoAward.
