Sponsored by the Arts & Humanities Research Council (AHRC) UK, Collaborative Doctoral Award (CDA) scheme. 

PhD Studentship: The Development of Designer Skill Sets through Critical Analysis.

£13,590 stipend per annum tax free plus tuition fees at UK/EU rates (rising annually in line with AHRC rate)

Applications are invited for a 3 year fully funded research studentship in the Loughborough Design School, UK, leading to the award of a PhD degree. 

An opportunity is available to undertake research in collaboration with Parametric Technology Corporation (PTC), UK. PTC offers the opportunity for the research student to work in a dynamic multi-national corporation to investigate the credibility and potential of its Web 2.0 technologies for the support of practicing designers, design educators and design students. The student will be given access to evaluate the existing PTC education programs and to identify key contributions to education.

The researcher will be expected to liaise with industry to identify the skill sets required for success in future design business; establish challenges, curriculum and both  worldwide and geographically specific programs to promote appropriate, modern product development education based on the needs of industry.

The PhD will be suitable for students with a degree in Product Design / Engineering and with a good command of product interaction and high competency in IT.

Eligibility
Candidates should hold a first or upper second degree in a Design/Engineering discipline, and a relevant Masters degree.  Proven Computing skills including CAD (Pro Engineer or similar) will expected. Although specific training will be provided in certain areas, knowledge of design for Web 2.0 technology application and development will be a distinct advantage

This PhD is funded through the AHRC Collaborative Doctoral Award scheme.  Funding includes maintenance award of £13,590 per year plus payment of UK/EU fees.  The studentship is subject to the AHRC rules for eligibility; the full award is only available to candidates who satisfy the  residency requirements. Application Information: Applicants should complete the standard PhD application form available from:- http://www.lboro.ac.uk/prospectus/pg/apply/index.html.  

Applications must be received no later than 5:00 PM on 9th July 2010. 
Interviews will be held on 15th July 2010.
This PhD programme will be available to the successful candidate from 1st October 2010.

Further information about the studentship can be obtained by contacting Dr. John McCardle (E-mail: [log in to unmask])