PhD with Industry

Brunel’s partnership with The Welding Institute (TWI) enables students to undertake in-depth research across the varied disciplines essential to structural integrity in combination with the industrial experience in the National Structural Integrity Research Centre (NSIRC). NSIRC is based in Cambridge and houses over £20 million of state-of-the-art equipment and some of the world's most advanced analysis and testing technologies. 

During the three-year PhD programme in Structural Integrity, students will design and carry out original experiments guided by their laboratory group leader/PhD Supervisor/Industrial Project Leader. Additionally the programme will include high-quality training and support to provide a strong foundation for future careers in structural integrity.

A key aim of the PhD programme is to supply a stream of industry-ready, world-class engineers and scientists in structural integrity disciplines such as fail-safe design, corrosion control, structural health monitoring, ageing asset management and fitness for service. The degree will be expected to provide the platform for rewarding careers in the oil and gas, power generation, petrochemical, nuclear and transportation sectors and is accredited by The Welding Institute as further learning for registration as a Chartered Engineer. Students working on projects in the field of non-destructive testing will also be able to acquire membership of BINDT (British Institute of Non-Destructive Testing).

Funding opportunities available now!

During their PhD, NSIRC students will have access to funding, which will allow them to present their work at a scientific conference in the UK and an international meeting. In addition there are a number of research studentships offered throughout the year. Please see the Funding pages for more details.