Research Associate - FAST Processing and Extrusion of Aerospace Powder

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The University of Sheffield are leading an Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council project to recycling aerospace waste through field-assisted sintering technology and continuous extrusion that requires pioneering a ground‑breaking, distinctive system‑level approaches to solid‑state processing dedicated to the pressing challenge of maximising the life of high‑integrity sector products. Encompassing technical, business model, supply chain, culture, risk, standards and commercial considerations, the STAR group are delivering tighter circularity loops in high‑integrity engineering sectors.

This exciting post will work to develop solid‑state processing routes from waste streams, and provide feedstock for wire additive manufacturing routes in order to create mechanical properties for new components produced from recycled critical metals.

The research posts will also use equipment in the Henry Royce Institute at The University of Sheffield which is part of the UK's national centre for advanced materials research, innovation and commercialisation. The Royce works collaboratively with industry and academia to accelerate the innovation of materials systems in order to create economic and societal benefit.

• Write a literature review and supporting documents to contribute to and support the work of the Research team, e.g. reports and interim reports.

• Plan research effectively and report to the supervisory team.

• Coordinate and liaise with industrial members of the project team and industry collaborators.

• Continuously monitor and check results. The unpredictability of research means that daily planning needs to accommodate new developments.

• Carry research utilising field‑assisted sintering and continuous extrusion technologies.

• Undertake finite element modelling of thermomechanical processes.

• Characterise the microstructure of material produced used during solid‑state processing trials, using standard metallographic preparation and electron back scatter diffraction and transmission electron microscopy techniques.

• Utilise appropriate finite element and multi‑physics modelling software to support the research deliverables.

• Carry out other duties, commensurate with the grade and remit of the post.

Our diverse community of staff and students recognises the unique abilities, backgrounds, and beliefs of all. We foster a culture where everyone feels they belong and is respected. Even if your past experience doesn't match perfectly with this role's criteria, your contribution is valuable, and we encourage you to apply. Please ensure that you reference the application criteria in the application statement when you apply.

• A PhD, or a relevant equivalent qualification, in a science or engineering discipline — Essential (Application)
• A strong scientific or engineering background with a broad knowledge of Advanced Materials research, specific expertise in thermomechanical processing, titanium metallurgy and an ability to understand and communicate its key technological aspects — Essential (Application)
• Experience of work in multiscale materials modelling — Essential (Application)
• Experience of traditional metals processing of titanium and steel in an industrial environment — Desirable (Interview)
• Experience in solid‑state powder processing and hot forging — Essential (Application)
• Experience in interpreting flow stress and field‑assisted sintering data — Essential (Application)
• High level of competency in electron microscopy (SEM, EBSD and TEM) — Essential (Application)
• Experience in…