PhD Studentship in Mechanical Metamaterials
Investigate inflatable and multistable mechanical metamaterials through modelling and experimental fabrication at the University of Oxford.
Best for:Best for engineering or physics graduates with a strong interest in experimental mechanics, soft robotics, and computational modeling.
Overview
The University of Oxford's Department of Engineering Science invites applications for a 3.5-year DPhil studentship focused on the design, modelling, and experimental investigation of inflatable and multistable mechanical metamaterials. Based in the RADlab, the successful candidate will combine hands-on fabrication and mechanical testing with nonlinear finite-element analysis and reduced-order modelling. The project aims to harness buckling, snap-through, and unit interactions to create programmable structures with controlled deployment and shape retention. Applicants will work under the supervision of Professor Antonio Elia Forte, starting in October 2027.
What you'll do
- Fabricate innovative inflatable units and complex mechanical assemblies using rapid prototyping and vacuum-laser techniques.
- Perform rigorous mechanical testing to measure deformation, force response, switching behavior, and load-bearing capacity.
- Develop and execute nonlinear finite-element analysis and reduced-order models to explain underlying structural mechanics.
- Conduct design optimization studies to enhance deployment capabilities and shape retention in reconfigurable structures.
- Analyze experimental data and correlate findings with computational models to guide subsequent design iterations.
- Collaborate within the RADlab and prepare findings for academic publication and dissemination.
Requirements
Degree required: First-class or strong upper second-class undergraduate honours degree in Engineering, Physics, Materials Science, Applied Mathematics or a closely related discipline
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; excellent written and spoken communication skills
Instruction: English
- Strong interest in mechanics, fabrication, and experimental research
- Demonstrated intellectual curiosity and ability to work independently
- Excellent English written and spoken communication skills
- Open to Home students eligible for full award covering home fees plus stipend
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-12-02
Candidates must submit a graduate application form through the University of Oxford course page and meet the standard graduate admissions criteria. Please quote reference code 27ENGMM_AF in all correspondence and in your application. Informal enquiries can be directed to Professor Antonio Elia Forte via email.
- Graduate application form
Contact
Antonio Elia Forte· Supervisor
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