MSc by Research in Manufacturing and Materials

The MSc by Research in Manufacturing and Materials offers a unique opportunity to deepen expertise and make a real impact on the field. Students will have the freedom to focus on a research topic of their choice, exploring new ideas and generating insights that could contribute significantly to the current body of knowledge. This experience will equip students with valuable research skills, including methodologies, data analysis, and critical thinking, highly sought after in both academic and professional arenas.

Why Cranfield?

This flexible, industry-relevant study route provides an opportunity to undertake a significant research project in collaboration with academia and industry, preparing graduates for careers and leadership roles across a range of sectors, including in academia. As an MSc by Research student, benefits include:

• Research-intensive focus: Conduct in-depth research in cutting-edge areas of specialism.
• Industry collaboration: Benefit from partnerships with leading companies and research institutions.
• State-of-the-art facilities: Access advanced laboratories and high-performance resources.
• Flexible learning: Tailored research projects aligned to personal interests and career aspirations.
• Career prospects: Develop highly sought-after skills and make an individual contribution to industries including, but not limited to, aerospace, automotive, energy, and manufacturing.

Research Areas

Additive Manufacturing and Engineering

The Welding and Additive Manufacturing Centre has a proven track record of successfully commercialising research outputs and fostering collaborations with industry. Potential research topics include:

• Advancement in large scale additive manufacturing,
• Process optimisation for given requirements (i.e., higher productivity and lower defects),
• Structure-property relationships of materials deposited by laser, electric arc, or their combination,
• Development of novel materials using additive manufacturing,
• Stress and distortion prediction for large components using finite element analysis,
• Process monitoring through advanced sensors,
• Automation and digitalisation of additive manufacturing workflow,
• Application of rapid prototyping in innovative design,
• Design for Manufacture (Consideration of preparing 3D printed parts for manufacture using 3D printing),
• Prototyping as an iterative development tool,
• Low fidelity to production ready components.

Manufacturing Technologies

MSc by Research in this area is suited for engineers, scientists, and technical professionals aiming to deepen their understanding of manufacturing systems, manufacturing productivity, materials engineering, and management strategies. Students undertake a substantial research project under expert supervision in areas such as:

• Advanced materials processing and characterisation
• Smart manufacturing and digital transformation
• Sustainable manufacturing and circular economy
• Manufacturing strategy and operations management

Materials Engineering

Materials engineering is a dynamic multidisciplinary effort with numerous innovations driving significant advancements across many sectors. Research projects can be taken in areas including:

• Advanced coating technologies and surface engineering
• Advanced processing technologies
• Materials for extreme environments
• Materials for a hydrogen economy, clean energy generation /storage and net zero future
• Functional materials and advanced smart device, sensor systems
• Composites, advanced materials and self-healing materials
• Computational materials modelling and material informatics
• Additive manufacturing particularly 3D large scale parts and fusion joining

At a Glance

• Application deadline: Ongoing
• Award type(s): MSc by Research
• Duration of award: One year full-time, two-three years part-time
• Eligibility: UK, EU, Rest of world

Supervisor

At Cranfield, the relationship between students and supervisors is highly valued. The structure is designed to promote a fruitful partnership, where supervisors guide students in their research and help them meet the expected standards.

Entry Requirements

Please refer to your chosen area of specialism for specific entry requirements. Typically, applicants should hold a degree within any STEM field (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) or an equivalent international qualification or closely aligned discipline. All cases will be reviewed on an individual basis.

Funding

This is a self-funded research opportunity, therefore students will need to cover their own tuition fees and the living expenses.

How to Apply

Before applying, please discuss your research ideas and identify a suitable supervisor. Typically, you will be asked to submit a research proposal which should demonstrate your interest and your potential to carry out independent research. This will include:

• A clear, interesting research question, challenge, or problem,
• Statement of the research aim and three or four supporting objectives,
• The relevance and value of the proposed research question, highlighting its originality and significance,
• A proposed methodology to carry out your research, including the data sources and source material you plan to use,
• Your expected contribution, what you hope to discover and what new areas it might open up,
• Provisional timelines for your research
• If known, the name of the potential academic supervisor.

---

Overview:

Cranfield University is a postgraduate-focused institution specializing in science, technology, engineering, and management. It is renowned for its strong industry links and practical approach to education.

---

Services Offered:

Cranfield University offers a wide range of services to students, including:

Careers and Employability Service:

Provides guidance and support for career planning and job searching.

IT Services:

Offers access to computer labs, software, and technical support.

Libraries:

Provides access to extensive collections of books, journals, and online resources.

---

Student Life and Campus Experience:

---

Key Reasons to Study There:

Strong Industry Links:

Cranfield University has close relationships with numerous organizations, providing students with opportunities for internships, placements, and networking.

Practical Approach to Education:

The university emphasizes hands-on learning and real-world applications, preparing students for successful careers.

World-Class Facilities:

Cranfield boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including laboratories, workshops, and research centers.

---

Academic Programs:

Cranfield University offers a variety of postgraduate programs, including:

Taught Degrees:

MSc programs in various fields, such as aerospace, energy, and management.

Research Degrees:

PhD and MPhil programs for students seeking to conduct advanced research.

Apprenticeships:

Level 7 apprenticeships for professionals seeking to enhance their skills and knowledge.

Professional Development:

Short courses and executive development programs for individuals and organizations.

---

Other:

• Cranfield University has two campuses: Cranfield Campus and Cranfield University at Shrivenham.
• The university is committed to sustainability and has a strong track record in environmental research.
• Cranfield University is ranked highly in various international rankings, including those for sustainability and engineering.