Are you aspiring to a PhD in additive manufacturing? There are currently open PhD scholarship opportunities offered by the National Center for Additive Manufacturing Excellence (NCAME) at Auburn University in additive manufacturing (AM). This opportunity allows for research in the exciting field of AM, with all funding provided and supervision from world-renowned experts.
About National Center for Additive Manufacturing Excellence
NCAME was founded in 2017 as a result of the partnership between Auburn University and NASA under the terms of the AU/NASA Space Act Agreement. NCAME is also among the initial members of the ASTM Additive Manufacturing Center of Excellence (ASTM AM CoE).
As NCAME is dedicated to closing the gap between fundamental research and its practical application in additive manufacturing, NCAME emphasizes that its mission is to work closely with industry partners and develop solutions to actual engineering problems related to metal AM reliability.
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Research Areas Available for PhD in Additive Manufacturing
The following areas are some of the topics for PhD in additive manufacturing dissertations for graduate students enrolled at NCAME:
- Manufacturing of metal components via additive manufacturing through technologies such as laser powder bed fusion, directed energy deposition, and cold spray focusing on process optimization and defect mitigation.
- Characterization and mechanical testing of additive-manufactured metals through tensile tests, fatigue tests, and others.
- Characterization of microstructure and properties through techniques such as microscopy, X-ray computed tomography, and diffractive methods.
- Process monitoring during additive manufacturing through the integration of optical and other sensors to visualize the entire process in situ and detect any abnormalities.
- Simulation and computational models through finite element analysis and crystal plasticity techniques.
These topics are pertinent to the industry due to their relevance in the field of aerospace, automotive, and other industries that are adopting metal additive manufacturing technology.
Who Should Apply? (Qualifications)
NCAME seeks driven candidates with an engineering background and who are interested in advanced manufacturing technology. These candidates must possess:
- A bachelor’s and/or master’s degree in mechanical engineering or materials science or any other related discipline of engineering.
- Knowledge in solids mechanics and/or materials science.
- Excellent communication skills and capacity to operate both individually and as a part of a research team.
- Other useful experiences such as understanding of fatigue and fracture, proficiency in the use of numerical techniques in mechanics of materials, and previous research experience.
These are the ideal opportunities for candidates passionate about merging mechanics, materials, and advanced manufacturing.
Funding Package and Benefits
The offered positions are highly subsidized, thus making them appealing for those interested in conducting research of high quality without the need to pay tuition fees.
Those accepted will have access to:
- A full graduate assistantship position which includes a tuition waiver.
- State-of-the-art research facilities located in NCAME, including modern metal AM machines and extensive characterization equipment.
- Work alongside world-renowned scientists in the area of additive manufacturing technology.
All of this makes it easier for one to specialize in metal AM.
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How to Apply
Applications for the PhD in Additive Manufacturing should be made online using the online application form available on the NCAME website. Individuals interested in applying for the position should ensure they have the following documents ready:
- Letter of intent
Give a brief description of your area of research interest, experience, and career objectives. Also, mention any research work in mechanics, materials, and manufacturing. - Curriculum vitae (CV)
Indicate your education history, publication and presentation records, technical skills, research projects, and experience, if any. - Transcripts
Ensure you provide transcripts from all institutions previously attended.
The review process will commence immediately and will run until all slots have been filled. Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications as soon as possible to be considered fully.
Location and Contact Information
This PhD program is offered by Auburn University in Auburn, Alabama, USA. The NCAME facility is housed in the Wiggins building, providing an ideal setting for metal AM research studies.
For additional information regarding the center, their activities, and the procedure for application, interested applicants are advised to visit the official NCAME website or get in touch with the center through the information provided in the original call.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is NCAME?
The National Center for Additive Manufacturing Excellence (NCAME) is a research center at Auburn University offering PhD in additive manufacturing and focused on advancing metal additive manufacturing through experimental, computational, and standards‑driven research.
2. Are these PhD positions fully funded?
Yes. The positions come with a full graduate assistantship that typically includes a tuition waiver and a stipend, subject to Auburn University’s policies.
3. What research areas can I work on?
Students can work on topics such as metal AM process development, mechanical testing of AM materials, microstructure and defect characterization, in‑situ process monitoring, and computational modeling/simulation of AM processes.
4. What academic background do I need?
Applicants should have at least a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, materials science, or a closely related engineering field. A master’s degree and prior research experience are considered advantages but are not always mandatory.
5. Do I need prior experience in additive manufacturing?
Direct AM experience is helpful but not strictly required. A strong foundation in mechanics, materials science, or numerical methods is often more important, along with a clear motivation to work in additive manufacturing.
6. Are international students eligible to apply?
Yes, international applicants are typically welcome as long as they meet Auburn University’s admission and English‑language requirements. Prospective students should check the official graduate admissions website for the latest details.
7. How do I submit my application for PhD in additive manufacturing?
Applications should be submitted electronically using the online form linked above. You will be asked to upload a cover letter, CV, and academic transcripts.
8. What should I include in my cover letter?
Explain your research interests in additive manufacturing, summarize relevant coursework or projects, highlight any research or industrial experience, and briefly describe your long‑term career goals.
9. Is there an application deadline for the PhD in additive manufacturing?
Review of applications begins immediately and continues until the positions are filled. Applying early is recommended, as offers may be made on a rolling basis.
10. Where is the PhD in additive manufacturing program located?
The positions are based at Auburn University in Auburn, Alabama, with research conducted at NCAME facilities in Wiggins Hall.
11. Can I contact someone before applying for the PhD in additive manufacturing?
Yes. Interested candidates can reach out to NCAME or potential faculty supervisors via the contact information provided on the official NCAME website to ask about available projects and expectations.
12. What career paths can this PhD in additive manufacturing lead to?
Graduates can pursue careers in academia, national laboratories, and R&D roles in industries such as aerospace, automotive, energy, and advanced manufacturing, where expertise in metal AM is in high demand.
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