Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering PGRTAs: Enhanced PhD Studentship

Overview

The Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at the University of Manchester is appointing one Postgraduate Research Teaching Associate (PGRTA) on an enhanced PhD studentship, with a view to starting by the end of 2026. The scheme combines research and teaching over a total period of 70 months, split 60 percent research and 40 percent teaching, in aerospace or mechanical engineering related disciplines. Holders finish with a PhD and training in higher education teaching, with the opportunity for accreditation.

The department is seeking an appointment in one of several areas tied to its research and teaching priorities: design with a focus on space engineering; digital manufacturing, sustainable manufacturing, laser engineering and robotics; physics of materials, structures and dynamics, biomechanics, welding and structural performance; nuclear fission, fusion, nuclear fuels and graphite and nuclear policy; and nuclear thermal hydraulics, solar energy, zero carbon systems, energy storage and biomedical engineering.

Who can apply

Students who are eligible to pay tuition fees at the Home rate are eligible to apply. The scholarship works on a nomination basis, so candidates need significant contact with their proposed supervisory team, who must know that the candidate wishes to be considered for funding. Applicants propose a PhD project within the listed areas by contacting a member of staff in the department.

What you get

The award includes an annual tax-free part-time stipend at the UKRI rate, £13,200.80 for 2026/27, plus a salary that brings annual income to a minimum of £28,405.40, with the combined teaching salary and stipend package described as £28,832 a year. The stipend is expected to rise each year. All tuition fees are covered by the School of Engineering.

How to apply

Complete the PhD application before the funding deadline and state in the funding section that you wish to be considered for the PGR Teaching Associate Scholarship. Include a written statement on why you are interested in a combined research and teaching PhD and how you meet the criteria. Your lead supervisor nominates candidates to the Faculty, and nominated candidates are invited to interview.

Key dates

The application deadline is 15 November 2026.