PhD Studentdship: Design, Modelling and Experimental Investigation of Inflatable and Multistable Mechanical Metamaterials

Overview

A three and a half year research studentship is available for a DPhil project focused on the design, modelling and experimental investigation of inflatable and multistable mechanical metamaterials. The research investigates metamaterials formed from inflatable and multistable units to explore how geometry, internal pressure, and unit interactions control collective mechanical responses. Emphasis is placed on creating structures that switch between stable configurations for controlled deployment and shape retention.

The successful candidate will be based in the RADlab within the Department of Engineering Science at the University of Oxford. The work combines hands-on fabrication and mechanical testing with nonlinear finite-element analysis, reduced-order modelling, and design optimisation. Experimental tasks involve fabricating units and assemblies, measuring deformation and force responses, and characterising switching behaviour, load-bearing capacity, and repeatability. Computational models will be used to understand underlying mechanics and guide future designs.

Who can apply

This funded studentship is open to Home students. Applicants must hold a first-class or strong upper second-class undergraduate honours degree in Engineering, Physics, Materials Science, Applied Mathematics, or a closely related discipline. Candidates should possess strong written and spoken English communication skills, a strong interest in mechanics, fabrication, and experimental research, intellectual curiosity, and the ability to work independently. Candidates with strengths in either computational or experimental mechanics are encouraged to apply, provided they are willing to develop skills in both areas.

Desirable skills include the ability to program in MATLAB or Python, experience with finite-element analysis or reduced-order modelling, and knowledge of solid mechanics, nonlinear deformation, or structural stability. Additional advantageous background includes experience in CAD, rapid prototyping, soft device fabrication, mechanical testing, instrumentation, or experimental data analysis, as well as familiarity with mechanical metamaterials, inflatable structures, multistable systems, or soft robotics.

What you get

The award provides full coverage for Home student course fees at approximately £10,940 per annum. In addition, a tax-free maintenance stipend of approximately £21,805 per annum is provided for the first year and at least this amount for a further two and a half years.

How to apply

Informal enquiries should be sent to Professor Antonio Elia Forte. Candidates must submit a graduate application form and satisfy the graduate admissions criteria outlined on the University course page. Applicants must quote the reference number in all correspondence and on the graduate application.

Key dates

The application deadline is noon on 2 December 2026. The studentship start date is October 2027.