Advanced Manufacturing, Automation and Metrology

Join a world-leading Engineering School pushing the boundaries of intelligent, sustainable and high-precision manufacturing. Manufacturing has been central to Loughborough University since its foundation in 1909, and our research now spans advanced manufacturing processes, intelligent automation, sustainability and the circular economy. The Wolfson School is internationally renowned for pioneering research in advanced manufacturing, robotics, automation, systems engineering and light-based precision metrology. With state-of-the-art manufacturing capabilities, additive manufacturing suites, robotics labs, and advanced optics and photonics instrumentation facilities, we offer an exceptional environment for doctoral study. Manufacturing is changing rapidly as automation, digitalisation and sustainability reshape the way components and systems are designed, produced and inspected. As a PhD researcher, you will be part of this transition—working on challenges that connect fundamental engineering with real industrial needs. Your project may involve smart production systems, autonomous equipment, precision metrology, or approaches that reduce waste and energy use in modern manufacturing. Research in this area drives the evolution of smart factories and digitally enabled production, aligned with Industry 4.0 principles and supporting emerging Industry 5.0 capabilities. Example research areas: 94% of Loughborough’s research impact is rated world-leading or internationally excellent. REF 2021

The standard University IELTS English language requirement is 6.5 overall with 6.0 in each individual element (reading, writing, listening and speaking).

International students: £29,500

UK students: £5,238

UK/Home: £5,238

International: £29,500

October 2026

31 July 2026

• Loughborough, United Kingdom