PhD Studentship: AI-Enhanced Sustainability: Driving Net-Zero Targets in Advanced Manufacturing Technology

About the Project

This project is an exciting opportunity to undertake industrially linked research in partnership with the Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC). It is based within the Sustainable Manufacturing Group, School of Engineering, University of Birmingham.

The PhD Project

This interdisciplinary PhD project aims to pioneer the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) with Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) to drive innovation in Advanced Manufacturing Technology. The research will utilise AI’s potential as a tool and solution to improve process efficiency, assess the lifecycle impact, and reduce the environmental effect, informing the development of environmentally responsible and resource-efficient solutions. This project offers an exciting opportunity to make a significant impact in the area of sustainable advanced manufacturing by working at the intersection of AI, sustainability, and technology. The project will be supervised by Dr Shoaib Sarfraz and Prof David Butler.

Who we are looking for

• A first or upper-second-class degree or a Master’s degree in a relevant discipline such as, computer science, industrial engineering, environmental science, data science, or any related field with a strong focus on artificial intelligence, sustainability, or advanced technologies.
• Experience in quantitative modelling and computer programming is desirable.
• Experience or interest in machine learning, AI algorithms, or data analysis.
• Familiarity with sustainability assessment methods, such as Life Cycle Analysis (LCA), is desirable but not essential.
• Ability to produce high-quality presentations and written reports.

The MTC is an independent Research and Technology Organisation (RTO) aimed at de-risking and accelerating the adoption of disruptive technologies within the UK manufacturing sphere. Supported by the UK government, the MTC works closely with industrial partners and other research organisations to deliver world leading innovation across all levels of the UK’s industrial landscape, from SMEs and start-ups to OEMs and large-scale global manufacturers. For more information please visit the MTC website.

As a researcher at Birmingham, you will benefit from working in an environment in which excellence and innovation are made possible by brilliant people, outstanding facilities and strong collaborative networks. You will be joining a global top 100 university tackling some of the biggest issues the world faces, making a difference to people's lives on a daily basis. Within this nurturing academic community, you will be able to contribute to shaping and changing lives. The University Graduate School supports Birmingham’s postgraduate researcher (PGR) and postgraduate taught (PGT) community. We foster an interdisciplinary community and act as a gateway to support and advice to ensure that our postgraduates have access to a high quality postgraduate experience.

How to apply

If you are eligible to apply for this research opportunity, please complete the online application form via the above ‘Apply’ button.

Contact

Informal inquiries, with a detailed CV and academic transcripts, should be sent to s.sarfraz@bham.ac.uk, d.l.butler@bham.ac.uk, and Priyanka.Ghosh@the-mtc.org.

Closing Date: 28^th February 2025.

Proposed PhD Start Date: 1st October 2025

Funding Notes

This is a 3-year fully funded studentship & is only open to UK home students. The successful applicant will receive a generous tax-free annual stipend of £25,000 plus payment of their full-time home tuition fees. Additionally, £2,000 per annum is provided for consumables, travel, etc. Due to funding restrictions this PhD position is only available to UK nationals. As this position is sponsored by the MTC, any successful candidate would need to pass the sponsor’s own security checks prior to the commencement of the PhD.

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