PhD Studentship – Development of Generation Corrosion-resistant Aluminium Alloys

PhD Studentship – Development of New Generation Corrosion-resistant Aluminium Alloys

University of Manchester
Manchester, United Kingdom

This fully funded doctoral research opportunity at the University of Manchester’s Department of Materials invites exceptional candidates to explore transformative solutions in advanced aluminium alloy design with a focus on corrosion resistance. Aluminium alloys play a critical role across aerospace, automotive, and other high-performance sectors, yet increased use of recycled metals introduces impurity challenges that can degrade corrosion performance. This project aims to understand the relationships between alloy chemistry, processing, microstructure and performance, and to develop new alloys that offer high strength and enhanced corrosion resistance, especially when produced from recycled content.

Candidates will benefit from access to state-of-the-art electron microscopes, X-ray and electron nanotomography, and electrochemical testing facilities while collaborating with an interdisciplinary team of researchers and industrial partners. The 3.5-year studentship offers an opportunity to build broad experimental expertise and contribute to research that supports sustainable materials innovation and reduced carbon emissions.

Eligibility Criteria
Applicants should have (or expect to receive) at least a 2:1 honours degree (or equivalent) in Materials Science/Engineering, Metallurgy, Physics, Chemistry or a closely related subject. Both Home (UK) and international applicants are eligible for this studentship.

Required Expertise, Skills
The ideal candidate will be ready to engage with multi-scale microstructural characterization, advanced electron microscopy, electrochemical corrosion testing, and the interpretation of data linking microstructure to performance. Strong analytical skills, curiosity about material behaviour, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively are key for success in this research environment.

Salary Details
The studentship includes full payment of tuition fees and an annual tax-free stipend set at the UKRI rate (approximately £20,780 for 2025/26, with expected increases in subsequent years).

Final date to receive applications
Applications close on 15 March 2026 for study beginning in October 2026.