Gravity compensation strategies in origami-based morphing structures

The University of Wollongong (UOW) in Australia and the University of Surrey (UoS) in the United Kingdom are collaborating on a groundbreaking research project aimed at revolutionizing sustainable architecture by integrating origami and gravity compensation technologies. The project focuses on developing origami-based reconfigurable façade structures and utilizing gravity compensation techniques to reduce the complexity and energy consumption of their actuation systems for future green buildings. This research explores the full potential of origami-inspired and gravity-compensated solutions for morphing structures, leading to novel engineering applications in sustainable architecture and green energy.

We are seeking a motivated PhD candidate with a background in mechanical engineering, mechatronics engineering, civil engineering, robotics, or a related field to join this research project. The candidate will work with an interdisciplinary supervisory team from Australia and the UK, which involves the researchers and scholars from the School of Mechanical, Materials, Mechatronic and Biomedical Engineering and the Sustainable Buildings Research Centre at UOW and the Centre for Engineering Materials and Structures at UoS.

The successful candidate will enrol in the PhD programme at UOW, spend time at both Surrey and Wollongong, and receive supervision from both UOW and UoS.

For any inquiries about this opportunity, please contact the principal supervisor of the project at UOW, Dr Chin-Hsing Kuo (chkuo@uow.edu.au).

Candidate Profile

Open to UK, Australian and international candidates.

You will need to meet the minimum entry requirements for our Engineering Materials PhD programme.

Candidates who meet the following criteria are encouraged to apply as these criteria demonstrate their readiness and commitment to advancing knowledge within their chosen area of doctoral study.

1. Academic Qualifications: Hold a 1st class Honours degree or its equivalent in a discipline relevant to the doctoral research area, or a Masters by Research degree demonstrating advanced knowledge and research capability.

2. Preparedness for Doctoral Research: Provide a compelling case detailing how their academic and professional training has prepared them for the demands and challenges of doctoral research. 

3. Alignment with Career Aims: Articulate how the doctoral research will contribute to their long-term career aims and professional goals.

4. Recognition and Achievements: Demonstrate a record of excellence, including multiple prizes, awards, or significant research outputs relevant to their academic field and indicative of their potential for significant contributions to their area of study.

5. Professional Experience: Outline any professional experience and convincingly argue its relevance to their doctoral project.

Please note that international candidates must also fulfil English language requirements to be admitted to the PhD program. This generally involves achieving an overall IELTS score of 6.5 or its equivalent, with no less than 6.0 in each language domain. Refer to the Course Handbook for specific requirements pertinent to your discipline.