Lunar construction and in-situ resource utilisation

​​The Lunar Construction and Resource Extraction Group at the Surrey Space Centre, University of Surrey, have a primary goal: to develop both the theory and practical application of construction processes and materials in extraterrestrial environments, particularly on the Moon and Mars. These efforts are closely aligned with the ESA’s Terrae Novae 2030+ Strategy roadmap.  

​Various governmental Space Agencies and the space industry recognise the Moon a steppingstone to future Mars exploration and the foundation for a deep space gateway roadmap. This perspective has generated a growing need for establishing long-term human settlement on the Moon. To achieve lunar construction, infrastructure, and resource extraction, we foster interdisciplinary collaboration across fields like the Built Environment, Engineering, Manufacturing, Material Science, Space Engineering, and Planetary/Space Science.  

​As part of our journey, we are seeking a dedicated PhD student to contribute to our group. The successful candidate will work on pre-defined research projects bringing us closer to fulfilling humanity’s dream of space exploration, akin to a “Space Oddysey”.  

• ​Investigation of extraterrestrial construction processes using Additive Manufacturing techniques 
• ​Curved-layered adjustable 3D Printing path strategy for extraterrestrial habitat construction 
• ​Estimation of the optimal thickness of the protection cover for lunar habitats against space radiation and (micro)meteoroid impact 
• ​Understanding the Melting, Processing, and Solidification of lunar (or Mars) regolith 

​We recommend applicants contact the research group lead for more information on available projects.​

Open to both UK and international candidates.

Up to 30% of our UKRI-funded studentships can be awarded to candidates paying international rate fees. Find out more about eligibility.

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

​​Applicants should have a first class or upper second-class or MSc degree (or equivalent) in a relevant discipline, which may include Engineering, Space Engineering, Construction or planetary science. Any previous experience in using 3D Printing, CNC/robotic programming, FEM with relevant simulation software (e.g., COMSOL Multiphysics), SEM/EDS/XRD, or lunar/Mars simulant would be an advantage. ​