Fully Funded PhD Studentship (2 Positions) – Sustainable Elastomer Materials | James Walker & University of Warwick
Fully Funded PhD Studentship (2 Positions)
Sustainable Elastomer Materials Research | Sponsored by James Walker & University of Warwick
Location: University of Warwick (with industrial engagement with James Walker)
Funding: Fully Funded Net2Zero CDT PhD Studentship
Duration: 4 Years
Eligibility: Applicants must qualify for UK Home Fee Status
About the Opportunity
James Walker, a global leader in high-performance sealing technologies and advanced engineering materials, is sponsoring two fully funded PhD studentships through the Net2Zero Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT) at the University of Warwick.
These exciting research projects will focus on the development of next-generation sustainable elastomer technologies and advanced materials that support the transition to a more sustainable industrial future.
Unlike many academic research projects, these PhDs are being developed with direct industrial involvement from James Walker. The research challenges have been identified by industry and will focus on solving real-world engineering and sustainability challenges.
Successful candidates will have the opportunity to work alongside leading academic researchers while engaging with experienced engineers, scientists and innovation specialists from James Walker.
Research Areas
Candidates will contribute to one of the following research programmes:
Sustainable Bio-Based Nanomaterials for Next-Generation Elastomer Technologies
or
Sustainable Nanomaterials for Thermal Management of Industrial Systems
Why Apply?
This is a unique opportunity to combine:
- World-class academic research
- Direct industrial sponsorship
- Real engineering challenges
- Exposure to commercial product development
- Professional networking within industry
- Potential future career opportunities with James Walker
The research outcomes could influence technologies used across sectors including:
- Energy & Net Zero Technologies
- Hydrogen Systems
- Nuclear
- Oil & Gas
- Chemical Processing
- Water & Infrastructure
- Aerospace
- Defence
- Advanced Manufacturing
What We're Looking For
We would welcome applications from highly motivated graduates with backgrounds in:
- Materials Science
- Polymer Science
- Chemistry
- Chemical Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Nanotechnology
- Physics
- Related Engineering or Scientific Disciplines
Applicants should have a strong interest in:
- Sustainable materials development
- Elastomer technology
- Advanced materials research
- Industrial innovation
- Net Zero technologies
Funding Package
Successful candidates will receive:
- Full PhD tuition fees
- Tax-free doctoral stipend (Net2Zero CDT funded)
- Access to leading academic and industrial research facilities
- Collaboration with experts from both the University of Warwick and James Walker
- Professional development, networking and industrial engagement opportunities
About James Walker
For over 140 years, James Walker has been solving complex sealing and materials challenges for industries operating in some of the world's most demanding environments.
Our technologies support critical applications across energy, infrastructure, Oil & Gas, nuclear, aerospace, chemical processing and manufacturing industries worldwide.
As an active sponsor of these studentships, James Walker will help shape the research direction, ensuring the work delivers meaningful industrial impact while helping develop the next generation of materials specialists.
Apply
For further information and application details, please visit:
Sustainable Bio-Based Nanomaterials for Next-Generation Elastomer Technologies https://www.aston.ac.uk/study/courses/sustainable-bio-based-nanomaterials-next-generation-elastomer-technologies-phd/october
Sustainable Nanomaterials for Thermal Management of Industrial Systems https://www.aston.ac.uk/study/courses/sustainable-nanomaterials-thermal-management-industrial-systems-phd/october-2026
Join Us
If you're passionate about sustainable materials, innovation and solving real-world engineering challenges, this is an opportunity to undertake impactful research while building valuable connections with industry leaders and potentially launching a long-term career within the sector.
Work Location: In person
