Supervisory Team: Professor Pedro Rivera and Professor Philippa Reed
Project Description:
Superalloys are a class of advanced materials able to withstand very high temperatures and corrosive environments. A major problem they face is printability – the formation of cracks and pores upon laser or electron beam additive manufacturing. There is a compromise between the formation of stable high-temperature phases imprinting strength and corrosion resistance, whilst assuring cracks and voids are avoided.
This project will adopt successfully used approaches for alloy design developed by the supervisory team. Artificial intelligence approaches will be combined with thermodynamic modelling and charactersiation across the scales to conceive printable superalloys of improved properties.
We are looking for a candidate with a background in metallurgy and materials science. The ideal person for this position will have working knowledge of computational thermodynamics, being able to relate microstructure with properties, and use thermodynamic approaches to tailor microstructure. Knowledge of additive manufacturing would be preferable, with an emphasis on the kinetics of the solidification process. Knowledge of programming is also desired, combined with understanding of microstructural characterisation via electron microscopy and atom probe tomography.
The project will be carried out in collaboration with Globus Metal Powders, and new alloy formulations will be considered as a key output. The intention is to conceive the next generation of printable superalloys to be produced in the UK by our industrial partner.
If you wish to discuss any details of the project informally, please contact Professor Pedro Rivera, Engineering Materials Research Group, Email: [email protected]
Entry Requirements
A very good undergraduate degree (at least a UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent).
Closing Date : 31 May 2024. Applications will be considered in the order that they are received, the position will be considered filled when a suitable candidate has been identified.
Funding: We offer a range of funding opportunities for both UK and international students, including Bursaries and Scholarships. For more information please visit PhD Scholarships | Doctoral College | University of Southampton . Funding will be awarded on a rolling basis, so apply early for the best opportunity to be considered.
How To Apply
Apply online: HERE Select programme type (Research), 2024/25, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, next page select “PhD Engineering & Environment (Full time)”. In Section 2 of the application form you should insert the name of the supervisor Prof Pedro Rivera.
Applications should include:
Research Proposal
Curriculum Vitae
Two reference letters
Degree Transcripts/Certificates to date
For further information please contact: [email protected]
The University of Southampton is committed to promoting equality, diversity, and inclusivity as demonstrated by our Athena SWAN award. We welcome all applicants regardless of their gender, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation or age, and will give full consideration to applicants seeking to study part time. The University of Southampton takes personal circumstances into account, has onsite childcare facilities, is committed to sustainability and has been awarded the Platinum EcoAward.