Postgraduate Research Teaching Associate (PGRTAs) in Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering
Fully funded PhD opportunity combining research and teaching in cutting-edge engineering disciplines.
Best for:Best for highly motivated candidates with a passion for both research and teaching, seeking a PhD in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering with a focus on interdisciplinary innovation.
Overview
This PhD position at The University of Manchester offers a unique blend of research and teaching responsibilities, ideal for candidates aiming to advance both their academic and professional careers. The successful applicant will conduct research in one of five strategic areas—ranging from space engineering to nuclear and biomedical fields—while contributing to teaching activities. The programme is fully funded, covering tuition fees, a competitive stipend, and a salary, making it an exceptional opportunity for motivated individuals interested in academia. The role is designed to provide hands-on experience in higher education teaching, with potential accreditation, while pursuing a PhD in a dynamic research environment.
What you'll do
- Conduct independent research in one of five strategic engineering disciplines, contributing to the department’s research priorities.
- Teach and support undergraduate or postgraduate courses, developing teaching skills and gaining experience in higher education.
- Develop and deliver educational content aligned with the department’s curriculum, including lectures, tutorials, and laboratory sessions.
- Collaborate with academic supervisors to propose and refine research projects, ensuring alignment with the department’s strategic goals.
- Engage in professional development activities to enhance teaching and research capabilities, with potential accreditation opportunities.
- Participate in departmental and university-wide research and teaching initiatives, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration.
Requirements
Degree required: A relevant master’s degree (or equivalent) in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a closely related field.
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; proficiency sufficient for academic research and teaching (no specific test score mentioned).
Instruction: English
- Proven academic excellence and research potential in engineering disciplines.
- Strong communication and teaching skills, demonstrated through prior experience or coursework.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a research-intensive environment.
- Familiarity with research methodologies and techniques relevant to the chosen engineering field.
- Eligibility to pay tuition fees at the Home rate (UK residents or eligible international students).
- No specific age or residency restrictions beyond tuition fee eligibility.
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-11-15
Applicants must first contact a member of the Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering department to propose a research project. Complete the PhD application form by the deadline, specifying interest in the PGRTAs scholarship. Include a written statement explaining your motivation for combining research and teaching, and how you align with the role’s criteria. Supervisors will nominate candidates for faculty review, leading to potential interviews.
- CV
- Cover letter or personal statement
- Written statement explaining interest in combined research and teaching
- Transcripts of previous degrees
- Two or three reference letters
Contact
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