PhD Studentship at BRE & Brunel University - Innovation in Agricultural Fibre Composites for Construction Applications

School of Engineering and Design

Brunel University

PhD Studentship at BRE & Brunel University
Innovation in Agricultural Fibre Composites for Construction Applications
Applications are invited for a research studentship to be based in the Building Research Establishment (BRE) and the School of Engineering and Design at Brunel University (BU), leading to the award of the PhD degree. The research area will be on the development of novel techniques for natural fibre composite formulation and functional products for building construction, involving both analytical and experimental investigation. The research is linked to a larger Defra-Link Collaborative R&D Project.
Applications are invited from candidates with a 2.1 degree or higher in plant/timber and other material technologies. Background in chemistry or experience within the construction sector will be an advantage. The successful candidate, as well as being a broad, innovative thinker with good communication skills should be enthusiastic, self-motivated and able to conduct research to meet demanding deadlines. The candidate will be expected to work at both BRE and Brunel University (50:50) and will be supervised by Dr Mizi Fan (Brunel) and Dr Ed Suttie (BRE).
The studentship will cover tuition fees to home/EU level and provide an enhanced living allowance over the basic stipend (currently £12,000 per annum). Overseas students are eligible to apply, but will be expected to pay the difference between home/EU and overseas fees.
Please send a University application form, CV, and covering letter with contact details of two referees to Dr Mizi Fan, School of Engineering and Design, Brunel University, Uxbridge, Middlesex, UB8 3PH, UK, or via email: mizi.fan@brunel.ac.uk.
The successful candidate will commence their PhD from May 2008 or as soon as possible. The deadline for applications is 31st March 2008.