PhD Studentship: Gravity Compensation Strategies in Origami-based Morphing Structures

The University of Wollongong (UOW) in Australia and the University of Surrey (UoS) in the United Kingdom are collaborating on a research project aimed at revolutionizing sustainable architecture by integrating origami and gravity compensation technologies. The project focuses on developing origami-based reconfigurable façade structures and utilizing gravity compensation techniques to reduce the complexity and energy consumption of their actuation systems for future green buildings. This research explores the full potential of origami-inspired and gravity-compensated solutions for morphing structures, leading to novel engineering applications in sustainable architecture and green energy.

We are seeking a motivated PhD candidate with a background in mechanical engineering, mechatronics engineering, civil engineering, robotics, or a related field to join this research project. The candidate will work with an interdisciplinary supervisory team from Australia and the UK, which involves the researchers and scholars from the School of Mechanical, Materials, Mechatronic and Biomedical Engineering and the Sustainable Buildings Research Centre at UOW and the Centre for Engineering Materials and Structures at UoS.

The successful candidate will enrol in the PhD programme at UOW, spend time at both Surrey and Wollongong, and receive supervision from both UOW and UoS.

For any inquiries about this opportunity, please contact the principal supervisor of the project at UOW, Dr Chin-Hsing Kuo (chkuo@uow.edu.au).

Entry requirements

Open to any UK, Australian or international candidates. Starting in February 2025.

Candidates who meet the following criteria are encouraged to apply.

1. Academic Qualifications: Hold a 1st class Honours degree or its equivalent in a discipline relevant to the doctoral research area, or a Masters by Research degree demonstrating advanced knowledge and research capability.
2. Preparedness for Doctoral Research:Provide a compelling case detailing how their academic and professional training has prepared them for the demands and challenges of doctoral research.
3. Alignment with Career Aims:Articulate how the doctoral research will contribute to their long-term career aims and professional goals.
4. Recognition and Achievements:Demonstrate a record of excellence, including multiple prizes, awards, or significant research outputs relevant to their academic.
5. Professional Experience: Outline any professional experience and convincingly argue its relevance to their doctoral project.

Please note that international candidates must also fulfil English language requirements to be admitted to the PhD program.

How to apply

Applications should be submitted online, via the application form linked below.

Application link: uow.au1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_5u5BDRBEt8AB1kO

Required documents should include:

• Academic Transcripts
• A CV detailing educational background, professional experience, awards, prizes and any other achievements relevant to the field of study.
• Proof of English proficiency (for international students)
• Evidence of Achievements: Documentation of any prizes, awards, or significant research outputs that demonstrate the candidate’s excellence in their field.
• In place of a research proposal, please upload a document that includes the title of the project you are applying for, the name of the relevant supervisor, and a personal statement (maximum 500 words). This statement should make a compelling case for your consideration by addressing the five eligibility criteria outlined above.

Funding

The scholarship includes: annual tuition fee waivers, stipend at the Australian Government Research Training Program rate (approximately $34,000 p.a.) for a duration of 3.5 years, one-year residency at the University of Surrey and research training support grant to be used for travel and consumable expenses.

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