PhD on Architected Surfaces for Regolith repulsion

Materials as MachinesLab

Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering

Carleton University | Ottawa, Canada

We 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 Areas

The project may explore combinations of:

• Architected and microstructured surfaces for controlling particle–surface interactions
• Additive manufacturing and advanced fabrication of functional surfaces
• Electrostatic and/or electrically activated approaches for regolith repulsion
• Conductive, dielectric, and multifunctional polymer systems
• Surface geometry and material-property optimization
• Experimental characterization of particle adhesion, transport, and removal
• Numerical modelling of particle–surface interactions
• Design and testing under conditions relevant to lunar environments

Candidate Profile

We 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 printing
• Experimental mechanics and materials characterization
• Polymer or composite materials
• Surface engineering
• Electrostatics or electromechanical systems
• Computational modelling or optimization
• Design and fabrication of experimental systems

The 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 Environment

The 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 Details

• Degree: PhD in Mechanical Engineering
• Location: Carleton University, Ottawa, Canada
• Funding: Fully funded PhD position
• Start date: Flexible / to be discussed

How to Apply

Interested candidates should send:

1. CV
2. Academic transcripts
3. A short description of their research interests and relevant experience

Applications should be sent to mmlab@cunet.carleton.ca with the subject line:

• “PhD – Architected Surfaces for Regolith Repulsion”