Closing Date: Friday, 10 Jul 2026
Application: PHD GSO 028-26 Fully Funded PhD Scholarship in Timber Engineering
University of Galway
Located in the vibrant cultural city of Galway in the west of Ireland, the University of Galway has a distinguished reputation for teaching and research excellence.
Detailed Project Description
This position is part of the BIOFABRICATE project (Integrated BIO-based Innovations for Sustainable Manufacturing, Construction, and Pharmaceutical Applications from Irish Forest Biomass), funded by the Irish Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) under the 2025 Thematic Research Call (Project Ref: 2025R_544). The project is led by University of Galway and involves collaboration with Trinity College Dublin, Technological University Dublin, Atlantic Technological University Galway, Dublin City University and Teagasc, and six industry partners.
BIOFABRICATE aims to develop and validate advanced bio-based materials, products and technologies from the growing supply of Irish forest biomass for applications in engineered timber construction, manufacturing, food packaging and pharmaceuticals. Key project areas include:
Low-emission pulping to produce micro- and nanocrystalline cellulose
Development of bio-based adhesives and coatings from lignin, tannin, proteins and microbial processes
Enhancement of material performance (durability, fire resistance, moisture resistance), including prototyping and testing engineered wood product (EWP) applications
Investigation of fungal-derived biocoatings with fire-retardant and antimicrobial properties
Adhesive-free design approaches for disassembly and reuse
Lifecycle assessment to evaluate environmental, technical and economic performance
PhD Focus
This PhD will focus on the structural design, fabrication, and large-scale experimental performance validation of engineered wood products (EWPs) using native Irish hardwoods and biobased materials. The research will include mechanical characterisation of Irish timber species, development and testing of timber elements and assemblies, and application in the built environment in Ireland with consideration for deconstruction and reuse.
Specific Requirements
Strong analytical and critical thinking skills
Excellent English communication skills, in particular report writing and presentation skills
High attention to detail and strong organisational ability
Ability to manage a complex workload and meet deadlines
Excellent interpersonal skills
Academic Entry Requirements
Bachelor's or master's degree (minimum 2.1 grade or equivalent) in Civil, Structural or Timber Engineering (or a closely related discipline)
Knowledge of structural design principles
Experience in technical report writing
Experience in experimental testing of materials or structures
Stipend and Fees
Living allowance (Stipend): €25,000 per annum, tax-exempt scholarship award.
University fees: EU tuition fees covered for 4 years maximum (2026‑2030).
Start Date
1 September 2026
Contact Information
Primary Supervisor: Dr Patrick McGetrick (patrick.mcgetrick@universityofgalway.ie)
Application deadline: 10/07/2026 at 17:00
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