Research Assistant: Al‑MMC & Fibre‑Reinforced Aluminum

Location

Brunel University London, Uxbridge Campus

Contract:

18 months, Full‑time

Research Assistant: £36,640 – £38,638 inclusive of London Weighting, with potential to progress to £39,682.
Research Fellow: £40,757 – £45,390 inclusive of London Weighting, with potential to progress to £52,067.

BCAST is a world‑leading speciality research centre focusing on solidification related research. It conducts fundamental research, technological development and industrial applications in solidification and solidification processing.

The role supports the Supercast project funded through the ATI‑SME scheme. It investigates the adaptation of continuous fibre reinforced aluminium alloys and involves close collaboration with TISICS, a leading supplier of fibre‑reinforced metal matrix composite technology.

• Develop a detailed understanding of alloying additions, fibre surface structure and processing conditions that influence the interface between alumina fibres and aluminium melt.
• Determine optimum conditions for producing Al‑MMC with full infiltration of alumina fibres.
• Produce cast Al‑MMCs with full infiltration of alumina fibres in large coupons for mechanical characterization.
• Conduct mechanical testing to assess property profiles and showcase performance of the Al‑MMCs.
• Cast solid parts—including flat plates, simple profiles or simple components—of Al‑MMC with continuous fibres.

• PhD degree or equivalent in materials science and engineering, physics, chemistry or a closely related discipline, or be close to the completion of a PhD.
• Strong background in experimental research.
• Prior expertise in alloy development and advanced materials characterisation is an advantage.
• Good communication skills and proficiency in written and spoken English.

Generous annual leave package, discretionary university closure days, excellent training and development opportunities, a generous occupational pension scheme and a range of health‑related support.

For informal enquiries please contact Dr Chamini Mendis in BCAST:

Closing date for applications: 24 July 2026
Interviews will take place on: 10th of August
To apply, click the Apply button.

Brunel University London has a strong commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion. Our aim is to promote and achieve a fully inclusive workforce to reflect our community.