PhD on Architected Surfaces for Regolith repulsion

Materials as MachinesLabDepartment of Mechanical and Aerospace EngineeringCarleton University | Ottawa, CanadaWe are seeking a highly motivated PhD student to join the Materials as Machines (MM) Lab at Carleton University to develop architected surfaces for the mitigation and repulsion of lunar regolith.Lunar regolith presents a significant challenge for future space exploration. Fine, abrasive, and electrostatically charged particles can adhere strongly to surfaces, affecting mechanisms, thermal management systems, optical components, sensors, and other spacecraft hardware.This PhD project will investigate how surface architecture, materials, and advanced manufacturing can be combined to create surfaces that actively or passively reduce regolith accumulation and promote particle removal.Research AreasThe project may explore combinations of:Architected and microstructured surfaces for controlling particle–surface interactionsAdditive manufacturing and advanced fabrication of functional surfacesElectrostatic and/or electrically activated approaches for regolith repulsionConductive, dielectric, and multifunctional polymer systemsSurface geometry and material-property optimizationExperimental characterization of particle adhesion, transport, and removalNumerical modelling of particle–surface interactionsDesign and testing under conditions relevant to lunar environmentsCandidate ProfileWe are looking for candidates with a strong background in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Materials Engineering, or a closely related field.Experience in one or more of the following areas would be particularly valuable:Additive manufacturing / 3D printingExperimental mechanics and materials characterizationPolymer or composite materialsSurface engineeringElectrostatics or electromechanical systemsComputational modelling or optimizationDesign and fabrication of experimental systemsThe ideal candidate will enjoy hands-on experimental research, designing and building new systems, and working across the boundaries of materials, manufacturing, and aerospace engineering.Research EnvironmentThe student will join the Materials as Machines (MM) Lab at Carleton University, where we develop advanced material systems that integrate structure and function through additive manufacturing, smart materials, and architected design.The project will provide opportunities to develop expertise spanning advanced manufacturing, functional materials, surface engineering, and space technologies.Position DetailsDegree: PhD in Mechanical Engineering

Location: Carleton University, Ottawa, CanadaFunding: Fully funded PhD positionStart date: Flexible / to be discussedHow to ApplyInterested candidates should send:CVAcademic transcriptsA short description of their research interests and relevant experienceApplications should be sent to mmlab@cunet.carleton.ca with the subject line:“PhD – Architected Surfaces for Regolith Repulsion”