Research Assistant/Associate – Accelerate a New Energy Efficient Titanium Forming Technology towards Industrial Applications

We invite applications for a Research Assistant/Associate - Accelerate a New Energy Efficient Titanium Forming Technology towards Industrial Applications position funded by UKRI. The role of the Researcher will be to investigate the dimensional accuracy of stamped components, test the feasibility of scaling up the process to larger dimensions, establish a modelling system to optimise the stamping process, and conduct cost and sustainability analysis by comparing the fast-stamping process with more conventional isothermal forming processes. 

The UK’s net-zero commitment places a strong demand on weight reduction of vehicle products and sustainable manufacturing in the transportation sector. This post aims to accelerate the development of an energy-efficient stamping process by improving the dimensional accuracy of as-stamped complex-shaped panel components, through reducing residual stress and springback. 

Main Duties: 

• To incorporate industrial requirements into stamping development plans.

• To develop an upgraded prototype system for stamping upscaled titanium components. The design of the stamping system includes design of the tools, rig, controlled cooling system, and handling system.
• To conduct titanium alloy thermomechanical and material characterisations, as well as stamping experiments.
• To conduct process simulations and optimisations.
• To conduct post-form technical evaluation, as well as energy consumption, cost, and market analysis.
• To identify suitable techniques, and apparatus, for the collection and analysis of data. 
• To assist with the analysis of data. 
• To ensure the validity and reliability of data at all times. 
• To maintain highly organised and accurate record of all findings and developments. 
• To assist with the writing of reports to research sponsors. 
• To present findings to colleagues and students. 
• To provide advice to other staff and students. 
• To assist with the publication of findings. 
• To attend relevant workshops and conferences as necessary. 
• To develop contacts within the College and the wider community. 
• To promote the reputation of the Group, the Department and the College. 

Where Imperial or funder conditions necessitate, you will be required to complete timesheets for your work on projects in a timely manner. 

• Research Associate: PhD in Design Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Materials, or a closely related discipline, or equivalent research, industrial or commercial experience. 


• Research Assistant: A first/masters degree (or equivalent) in Design Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Materials, or a closely related discipline. 

*Candidates who have not yet been officially awarded their PhD will be appointed as Research Assistant. 

• Practical experience within a research environment and/or publication in relevant and refereed journals. 


• Practical experience in a broad range of techniques including design and manufacturing of testing rig and electrical control system. 


• Experience in material testing equipment such as Gleeble, INSTRON, Hydraulic Press. 


• Experience in metal forming, ideally in sheet metal stamping. 

Please refer to the job description for a full list of desired and essential requirements. 

This can be either a full-time or part-time role. Working hours will be agreed with the successful candidate. 

Should you require any further details on the role please contact: Dr Nan Li [email protected].

Any queries regarding the application process should be directed to Monika Delczyk at [email protected].

Our preferred method of application is online via our website. Please click ‘apply’ below or go to https://www.imperial.ac.uk/job-applicants/  and search using reference number ENG02964  Please complete an application form as directed.