PhD Studentship: Modular Deployable Large Space Tensegrity Structures (MD-LaSTS)

Research theme: Space systems
How many positions: 1

This project is fully funded for home applicants; the successful candidate will receive an annual tax free stipend set at the UKRI rate (£20,780 for 2025/26) and tuition fees will be paid.

This project explores the development of tensegrity structures for large-scale space deployment, aimed at enhancing the sustainability of space infrastructure. Tensegrity structures, which rely on a balance of compressive and tensile components, offer unique advantages for space applications, including high strength-to-weight ratios, flexibility in configuration, and adaptability in harsh space environments. By leveraging lightweight materials and modular design principles, the project focuses on creating scalable tensegrity frameworks that can support various functions—such as solar arrays, antennae, and habitat frameworks—while minimizing launch mass and deployment complexity. Key objectives include optimizing structural design for deployment efficiency, resilience under dynamic loads, and adaptability for diverse mission requirements. The project aims to demonstrate the feasibility and effectiveness of tensegrity-based space structures through simulations and prototyping, contributing to more sustainable and reusable architectures for future space exploration and infrastructure.

Applicants should have, or expect to achieve, at least a 2.1 honours degree or a master’s (or international equivalent) in a relevant science or engineering related discipline. Candidates must be eligible for UK (Home) status.

Apply online via the above ‘Apply’ button.

To apply, please contact the supervisors; Dr Katharine Smith - kate.smith@manchester.ac.uk, Dr Ajay Harish - ajaybangalore.harish@manchester.ac.uk and Dr Philip Bull - phil.bull@manchester.ac.uk. Please include details of your current level of study, academic background and any relevant experience and include a paragraph about your motivation to study this PhD project.

Application deadline: 30/04/2025

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