Mechanical Engineering

Location:  Highfield Campus
Closing Date:  Wednesday 31 August 2022
Reference:  1875422DA

Supervisory Team:    Yifeng Yang

Project description

Next-generation High Field Superconducting Magnets 

Superconducting magnets are the primary worldwide application of superconductivity. MRI has revolutionised medical imaging, and NMR has enabled the discovery of modern drugs. In physical science research, high field superconducting magnets provide a crucial tool for exploring new quantum materials. They are essential for research into materials for powering the green economy.

Since their inception in the late 1950s, superconducting magnets have relied on ‘conventional’ low-temperature superconductors (LTS). Today though, next-generation, high-temperature superconductors (HTS) promise to revolutionise superconducting magnet technology, making it possible to build radically more compact and powerful magnets. HTS superconductors make NMR above 1 GHz (23.5 T) possible, and will allow the construction of  compact tokamak fusion reactors, and bring breakthrough technology for 30T+ laboratory magnets.

This is an exciting opportunity to work at the interface between academic and industrial R&D. The main focus of the project will be experimental work at the University of Southampton, using an existing Oxford Instruments wide-bore testbed magnet. The candidate will also spend a period of time working on the project at Oxford Instrument’s facility in Oxfordshire. In conjunction with the wider team, computer models will be developed to interpret the data. 

Oxford Instruments Nanoscience have pioneered superconducting magnet technology since their foundation and are now engaged in HTS magnet research.  The University of Southampton is among the top 100 in the world university rankings. The research in applied superconductivity at the Institute of Cryogenics has been recognised internationally since the 1970s with a strong track record of successfully collaborations with industry and leading international institutions. 

This is an ICASE supported PhD scholarship which covers the tuition Fees for UK students and stipend of £22,992 tax-free per annum including top-up by Oxford Instruments.

A first class or 2:1 degree in physics and mechanical or electrical engineering is required. Ideally the candidate should have some laboratory experience in experimental physics or engineering. Outstanding international applicants are welcome and eligible to supplementary University Scholarship for full PhD fees. The selection process is competitive based on the strength of the academic qualifications, personal statement, CV and references. 

The study is planned to start no later than 31 Oct 2022.

If you wish to discuss any details of the project informally, please contact Prof Y Yang, Institute of Cryogenics, Email: y.yang@soton.ac.uk, Tel: +44 (0) 2380 59 3204.

Entry Requirements

A very good undergraduate degree (at least a UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent), in physics and mechanical or electrical engineering is required

Closing date: applications should be received no later than 31 August 2022 for standard admissions, but later applications may be considered depending on the funds remaining in place.

Funding: For UK students, Tuition Fees and a stipend of £22,992 tax-free per annum for up to 4 years. 

How To Apply

Applications should be made online. Select programme type (Research), 2022/23, Faculty of Physical Sciences and Engineering, next page select “PhD  Engineering & Environment (Full time)”. In Section 2 of the application form you should insert the name of the supervisor Yifeng Yang 

Applications should include: 

• Research Proposal
• Curriculum Vitae
• Two reference letters
• Degree Transcripts to date

Apply online: https://www.southampton.ac.uk/courses/how-to-apply/postgraduate-applications.page

For further information please contact: feps-pgr-apply@soton.ac.uk