Research Associate - FAST Processing and Extrusion of Aerospace Powder

Overview

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. 

Main duties and responsibilities

• 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 backscatter 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.

Person Specification 

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.

Criteria

Essential or desirable

Stage(s) assessed at

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 non-destructive evaluation and mechanical testing methods.

Desirable

Interview

Ability to plan, organise and execute to ensure the production of the agreed deliverables to the project plan

Essential

Interview

Outstanding interpersonal and communication skills, and an ability to deal with both scientific and commercial issues authoritatively

Essential

Interview

Self-motivation and the capability of being team player as well as team leader

Essential

Interview

Further Information

Next steps in the recruitment process

The selection process will take place in Sept 2026. This will consist ofa panel interview and a short presentation. We plan to let candidates know if they have progressed to the selection stage as soon as possible after the closing date. If you need any support, equipment or adjustments to enable you to participate in any element of the recruitment process please contact [email protected] .

Our vision and strategic plan

We are the University of Sheffield. This is our vision: sheffield.ac.uk/vision (opens in new window).

We are a Disability Confident Leader (opens in a new window). If you have a disability and meet the essential criteria for this job you will be invited to take part in the next stage of the selection process.