Are you ready to take the next step in your academic career and revolutionize the manufacturing industry with digital technology? The University of Leicester, in collaboration with Birmingham, Loughborough, Nottingham, and Warwick universities, is offering 14 fully funded PhD scholarships through the EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT) in Digital Transformation of the Metals Industry for the 2025 cohort.

This is your chance to engage in groundbreaking research at the forefront of digital manufacturing and metals engineering, and work alongside some of the leading names in industry such as Rolls-Royce, Siemens, Tata Steel, and British Steel.

🌟 Why This Scholarship Is a Game-Changer

The DigitalMetal CDT aims to develop the next generation of research leaders who will modernize and digitize industrial processes. With a focus on AI, automation, and robotics, the program offers an opportunity to work on industry-changing research projects, ensuring you play a pivotal role in shaping the future of manufacturing.

🎓 Scholarship Benefits

The scholarship package includes:

Full coverage of UK tuition fees
Annual stipend at UKRI rate (£19,237 for 2024/25)
£4,000 per year for research training and support (RTSG)
Access to top-tier research facilities and labs
Industrial mentorship from leaders in the field such as Rolls-Royce, Siemens, Tata Steel, and British Steel

This is more than a scholarship; it’s an immersive experience that provides both academic and practical exposure to the latest advancements in digital manufacturing.

🔬 Research Areas

Students will engage in cutting-edge research across five key themes:

Advanced Manufacturing – Projects on 3D printing, welding, and automation in production.
Metals and Alloys Engineering – Developing new superalloys and high-performance materials.
Digital Twinning – Using AI-powered simulations for manufacturing process improvements.
Right-First-Time Manufacturing – Sustainability-focused digital manufacturing for high-performance applications.
Digital Supply Chains & Industry 4.0 – Leveraging AI and data analytics to optimize supply chain decision-making and visibility.

You will have the opportunity to collaborate with industry giants to solve real-world problems, ensuring that your research has a meaningful impact on the manufacturing sector.

👨‍🎓 Who Can Apply?

This opportunity is open to applicants who meet the following criteria:

Hold a First-Class or Upper Second-Class degree (2:1) in engineering, materials science, computer science, or a related field.
Applicants with a 2:2 degree and a relevant Master’s degree will also be considered.
Open to both UK and international applicants, depending on the specific project and institution.
A strong interest in digital manufacturing, AI, and metals engineering is essential.

Successful candidates will be trained and equipped with the skills needed to become experts in the digital transformation of the manufacturing industry.

📅 Application Deadline & Important Dates

Application Deadline: April 30, 2025
Start Date: September 22, 2025
Location: University of Leicester or one of the partner universities (Birmingham, Loughborough, Nottingham, or Warwick)

✨ How to Apply

To apply, visit the official University of Leicester application page:
🔗 Apply Here

For more information on the scholarship, you can also visit DAAD Scholarship:
🔗 Read More on DAAD Scholarship

🏆 Why You Should Apply

By joining the DigitalMetal CDT program, you will not only gain access to the best research facilities but also receive training in leadership and AI-driven manufacturing processes. This will be an excellent stepping stone toward a successful career in academia, research, or high-impact industrial roles, helping you lead the digital transformation of the manufacturing industry.

This scholarship offers unmatched research opportunities, strong industrial partnerships, and the chance to work on real-world projects that have the potential to shape the future of sustainable manufacturing.

conclusion:

The DigitalMetal CDT 2025 PhD program offers a unique opportunity for students to become leaders in the digital transformation of the metals and manufacturing industries. With full funding, expert mentorship, and access to top-tier research facilities, this program is the perfect platform for those looking to make a lasting impact on industrial processes worldwide.

Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to advance your career in a cutting-edge field and apply by April 30, 2025!