Utilisation of Generative Artificial Intelligence to Advance Manufacturing Sustainability PhD

Modern industry faces a double challenge: reducing environmental impact while maintaining efficiency. Sustainability, focusing on responsible resource use and minimising waste, is crucial for the future. Here is where smart manufacturing steps in offering digitalisation technologies and artificial intelligence to generate solutions that optimise processes, reduce energy consumption and minimise material waste.

The manufacturing industry is undergoing a significant change in terms of digital transformation, enabling it to fully leverage advanced Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) such as digital twins and artificial intelligence. Future factories will be “smart,” representing an ecosystem that encompasses intelligent connected systems with various modes of operation, including autonomous functions and interaction with humans.

This project aims to centre its focus on utilising Generative Artificial Intelligence within the smart factory ecosystem to drive advancements in manufacturing sustainability. The project encompasses a wide range of sustainability improvement areas, including environmental factors such as reducing carbon footprint and emissions, economic considerations such as optimising costs and resource utilisation, as well as social aspects like enhancing human operator safety.

The successful candidate will join the Sustainable Manufacturing Systems Center (SMSC), which has experienced academics who conduct research on manufacturing sustainability (at different manufacturing levels such as operations, shopfloor and enterprise). SMSC will support the candidate in communication with potential industrial partners.

Implementing Generative Artificial Intelligence in manufacturing processes can drive innovation and technological advancements in the industry. This may include the development of novel algorithms, intelligent systems, and automation capabilities that can revolutionise the manufacturing landscape. The innovation can also include product development methods and feature generation to correspond to sustainability requirements.

The project can contribute to the accumulation of knowledge and expertise in the field of Generative Artificial Intelligence in manufacturing. This can lead to the development of best practices, guidelines, and insights that can be shared with the broader industry, fostering continuous improvement and growth.

This project stands out by specifically focusing on Generative AI, a cutting-edge technology with immense potential in manufacturing sustainability. The involvement of the Sustainable Manufacturing Systems Centre (SMSC) with its industry connections presents a strong opportunity for real-world application and impact. This collaboration makes your research more relevant and attractive to potential employers.

The applicant will have the opportunity to share research finding in international conferences and exhibitions. Necessary training may be provided.

The successful PhD candidate will develop deep knowledge in Generative AI, which is becoming a highly sought-after skill in various industries. Besides, the student will develop strong research skills to identify problems, analyse data, and create solutions using Generative AI. The student is expected to sharpen their problem-solving and communication skills as a result of collaboration with other colleagues in SMSC and industrial partners.

The focus on Generative AI in sustainable manufacturing aligns with a major industry trend, making the graduate highly attractive to potential employers. On the other hand, collaboration with the Sustainable Manufacturing Systems Centre provides valuable industry connections, increasing their visibility and employability. The PhD equips the successful candidate with expertise to pursue research careers in academia, relevant industries, or research institutions.

Entry requirements

Applicants should have a first or second class UK honours degree or equivalent in engineering or management or related discipline.

Diversity and Inclusion at Cranfield

At Cranfield, we value our diverse staff and student community and maintain a culture where everyone can work and study together harmoniously with dignity and respect. This is reflected in our University values of ambition, impact, respect and community. We welcome students and staff from all backgrounds from over 100 countries and support our staff and students to realise their full potential, from academic achievement to mental and physical wellbeing.

We are committed to progressing the diversity and inclusion agenda, for example; gender diversity in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) through our Athena SWAN Bronze award and action plan, we are members of the Women’s Engineering Society (WES) and Working Families, and sponsors of International Women in Engineering Day. We are also Disability Confident Level 1 Employers and members of the Business Disability Forum.

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 Fadi Assad

Email: fadi.assad@cranfield.ac.uk

If you are eligible to apply for this studentship, please complete the online application form.