This research project focuses on advanced design and manufacturing engineering for innovative toilet systems as part of the Gates Foundation’s global health initiative. Students will conduct cutting-edge research combining CAD design, 3D printing technologies, and advanced manufacturing processes to develop prototypes and optimize production methods for smart sanitation systems. The research involves developing design methodologies, testing manufacturing techniques, and creating scalable production processes for community-scale toilet technologies.
The research encompasses computer-aided design, additive manufacturing, materials science, and manufacturing optimization to create efficient, cost-effective production methods for sanitation technology. Students will work with state-of-the-art equipment including multiple 3D printing technologies, CNC machining, and laser cutting systems to develop and validate innovative toilet system components.
Key Research Areas: CAD design and drafting, 3D printing and additive manufacturing, manufacturing process optimization, materials science, mechanical engineering design, prototype development, and production scalability.
Design and manufacturing engineering represents the critical bridge between innovative concepts and real-world implementation, particularly in global sanitation technology where products must be both technically sophisticated and manufacturable at scale. With increasing emphasis on rapid prototyping, additive manufacturing, and cost-effective production methods, there is growing demand for engineers who can seamlessly integrate design optimization with advanced manufacturing techniques. This multidisciplinary field combines mechanical engineering, materials science, and manufacturing technology to create solutions that are not only functionally excellent but also economically viable for large-scale deployment in diverse global contexts.
This project aims to develop comprehensive design and manufacturing frameworks for advanced sanitation systems, focusing on optimizing both product design and production processes through advanced CAD modeling, 3D printing technologies, and manufacturing optimization. The research focuses on creating efficient design workflows, validating multiple additive manufacturing approaches, and developing scalable production methods that can support global deployment of toilet technologies. Students will investigate how to optimize designs for manufacturability while maintaining performance requirements, reduce production costs through process optimization, and create manufacturing documentation that supports quality control and scalability.
Cranfield’s world-class expertise, large-scale facilities and unrivalled industry partnerships is creating leaders in technology and management globally. We aim to create and maintain a culture in which everyone can work and study together and realise their full potential. We are a Disability Confident Employer and proud members of the Stonewall Diversity Champions Programme. We are committed to actively exploring flexible working options for each role and have been ranked in the Top 30 family friendly employers in the UK by the charity Working Families. The Gates Foundation, a leading global philanthropic organization committed to improving health and reducing inequality worldwide.
The research is expected to produce validated design methodologies for sanitation technology, optimized manufacturing processes for cost-effective production, and comprehensive documentation for scalable manufacturing implementation. Results will include published research in top-tier design and manufacturing journals, proven manufacturing protocols for multiple production technologies, detailed cost analysis of different manufacturing approaches, and validated prototypes ready for pilot production. The project aims to establish new standards for design-for-manufacturing in global sanitation technology and create production frameworks that can support large-scale toilet system deployment.
This project offers exceptional opportunities including access to cutting-edge manufacturing equipment (SLS, SLA, FDM, DLP 3D printers, CNC machines, laser cutting systems), hands-on experience with industrial design and manufacturing processes, collaboration with global technology deployment teams, participation in design and manufacturing workshops, and specialized training in advanced CAD software and manufacturing techniques. Students will gain exposure to both state-of-the-art design tools and practical manufacturing challenges, providing a unique combination of technical innovation and industrial experience that is highly valued in today’s advanced manufacturing and sanitation product development sectors.
Students will develop highly sought-after skills in CAD design, additive manufacturing, mechanical engineering, and manufacturing process optimization. The interdisciplinary nature of the research provides excellent preparation for careers in product design, manufacturing engineering, aerospace, automotive, medical device, or consumer product industries. Graduates will possess strong technical capabilities in design software, hands-on manufacturing experience, project management skills, and proven ability to optimize products for both sanitation related performance and manufacturability, making them exceptionally competitive in today’s advanced manufacturing job market.
At a glance
- Application deadline: 13 Aug 2025
- Award type(s): MSc by Research, PhD
- Start date: 29 Sep 2025
- Duration of award: 1 year – MSc by Research. 3 years – PhD
- Eligibility: UK, Rest of world
- Reference number: SWEE0306 – MSc by Research. SWEE00307 – Phd
Supervisor
1st Supervisor: Dr Matt Collins
2nd Supervisor: Mr Tushar Tusharjeet
Entry requirements
Applicants should have a first or second class UK honours degree or equivalent in a related discipline.
This project would suit graduates with backgrounds in:
- Mechanical Engineering with focus on design, manufacturing, or materials
- Design Engineering or Product Design Engineering with CAD and manufacturing experience
- Manufacturing Engineering with knowledge of additive manufacturing and traditional processes
- Materials Science and Engineering with manufacturing and design applications
- Automotive Engineering with design and manufacturing background
- Industrial Design with strong technical and CAD skills
Ideal candidates will have:
- Demonstrated proficiency in SolidWorks and AutoCAD 2D software
- Hands-on experience with 3D printing technologies and manufacturing processes
- Strong understanding of materials properties and manufacturing constraints
- Experience creating technical documentation and engineering drawings
- Knowledge of GD&T principles and quality control procedures
- Ability to work independently while contributing effectively to team projects
- Comfortable managing daily waste streams, including liquids and solids.
This project is particularly suitable for students who:
- Are passionate about using design and manufacturing to create solutions for global health challenges
- Enjoy hands-on work with advanced manufacturing equipment and 3D printing technologies
- Want to gain experience in both design optimization and manufacturing process development
- Are interested in the intersection of engineering design, materials science, and global development
- Seek to develop skills that bridge innovative design with practical manufacturing implementation
- Have strong attention to detail and commitment to creating high-quality engineered solutions
Funding
Sponsored by Gates Foundation and Cranfield University, this studentship will provide a bursary of up to £1,350 per month (tax free) plus fees*. The funding will cover 12 months for MSc by Research students or 3 years for PhD students.
*This opportunity is open to Home and Overseas fee status students. Eligibility for Home fee status is determined with reference to UK Department for Education rules. As a guiding principle UK or Irish nationals who are ordinarily resident in either the UK or Republic of Ireland pay Home tuition fees. All other students (including those from the Channel Islands and Isle of Man) pay Overseas fees. Further advice can be found on the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) website.
Cranfield Doctoral Network
Research students at Cranfield benefit from being part of a dynamic, focused and professional study environment and all become valued members of the Cranfield Doctoral Network. This network brings together both research students and staff, providing a platform for our researchers to share ideas and collaborate in a multi-disciplinary environment. It aims to encourage an effective and vibrant research culture, founded upon the diversity of activities and knowledge. A tailored programme of seminars and events, alongside our Doctoral Researchers Core Development programme (transferable skills training), provide those studying a research degree with a wealth of social and networking opportunities.
How to apply
For further information please contact:
Name: Dr Matt Collins
Email: M.Collins@cranfield.ac.uk
If you are eligible to apply for this research studentship, please complete the online application form.
MSc by Research application form Ref: SWEE0306
PhD application form Ref: SWEE0307
Please note we will be interviewing as applications are received. This vacancy may be filled before the closing date so early application is strongly encouraged as soon as possible especially if you are an international student and may need additional documentation (visas etc)
For further information about application please visit Applying for a research degree.
