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About the University of Leicester Fully Funded PhD Studentship
The University of Leicester, in collaboration with prestigious institutions across the UK, is now accepting applications for the 2025 cohort of the EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT) in the Digital Transformation of the Metals Industry (DigitalMetal CDT). Are you passionate about driving innovation in the metals and industrial sectors? Do you dream of becoming a leader in digital manufacturing and engineering research? This is a remarkable opportunity for aspiring PhD students to receive world-class training, conduct cutting-edge research, and gain access to fully funded studentships with generous financial support.
The DigitalMetal CDT is a strategic initiative supported by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) that aims to shape the future of the UK’s metal and manufacturing industries. The program is led by the University of Leicester and supported by a consortium of top-tier UK universities including the University of Birmingham, Loughborough University, the University of Nottingham, and the University of Warwick.
A total of 14 fully funded PhD studentships are available for the 2025 intake. These studentships aim to nurture a new generation of researchers equipped with the digital skills and technical expertise to revolutionize how metals are designed, manufactured, and applied across various sectors.
Through intensive research, interdisciplinary collaboration, and industrial engagement, students will contribute to the transformation of the UK metals industry to a more sustainable, digital, and efficient future.
Eligible Fields
The studentship opportunities span across the following focus areas:
- Advanced Manufacturing
- Metals and Alloys Engineering
- Digital Twin Technology
- Right-First-Time Manufacturing
- Engineering Management and Digital Supply Chains
Applicants can tailor their research projects according to their interests within these core themes, working closely with experienced supervisors and industry experts.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for this PhD opportunity, applicants must:
- Hold at least a UK 2:1 Honours degree (BSc) or a pass at MSc level (or international equivalent) in a relevant discipline.
- Be eligible for UK student status. Some international applicants may be accepted based on the availability of suitable projects and supervisory capacity.
- International applicants must be able to cover visa application costs (approximately £2,500).
- EU students with settled or pre-settled status in the UK are eligible and must submit their share code for verification.
- Demonstrate a strong academic record, motivation for research, and interest in contributing to the digital transformation of the metals industry.
Selection Criteria
The selection process will evaluate candidates based on:
- Academic qualifications and potential
- Relevance of prior education to the research themes
- Alignment with the CDT’s objectives and focus areas
- Availability of project supervision and funding for international applicants
- Quality of submitted application and supporting documents
Only highly motivated and outstanding candidates will be selected for these competitive studentships.
Eligible Countries
- UK nationals are fully eligible.
- International students are welcome to apply, although acceptance may vary by project and supervisor availability.
- EU nationals with UK settled/pre-settled status are also encouraged to apply.
Benefits of the University of Leicester Fully Funded PhD Studentship
Successful applicants will receive a comprehensive funding package, which includes:
- Full UK tuition coverage
- An annual tax-free stipend of £19,237 (based on the 2024/25 rate) to support living expenses
- An additional £4,000 per year to cover research training, conference participation, and project support
- Access to world-class research facilities and a collaborative research environment
- Supervision from leading academics in the field
- Engagement with major players in the UK’s industrial and manufacturing sectors
- Career development support leading to roles in academia, industry, consultancy, or public policy
How to Apply
Follow these steps to submit your application:
- Identify a preferred research theme from the listed focus areas.
- Visit the official DigitalMetal CDT webpage to access the application form.
- Complete the online DigitalMetal CDT application form thoroughly, ensuring that all required sections are accurately filled.
- Submit any supporting documentation requested in the instructions.
- Reach out to the CDT administration if you are an international applicant to confirm eligibility for available projects.
If you are ready to take on the challenge of shaping the future of the UK’s metals industry through advanced research and digital innovation, do not miss this opportunity to apply for the DigitalMetal CDT PhD Studentship 2025.
CLICK HERE TO APPLY
See also:
Tokyo University Amgen Scholars Program 2025: Apply Now!
The Letten Prize 2025 for Researchers: Apply Now!
