Research Fellow in Additive Manufacturing of Soft Magnets (KTP Associate - UoB/Magnetic Shields Limited)

Salary: As this vacancy has limited funding the maximum salary that can be offered is Grade 7/28, salary £34,980. 

About the Role:

To create and contribute to the creation of knowledge by undertaking a specified range of activities within an established research programme and/or specific research project.

This is an exciting opportunity to lead a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) between the School of Metallurgy and Materials at the University of Birmingham and Magnetic Shields Limited. The Knowledge Transfer Partnership project will investigate the use of 3D printing technology to manufacture magnetic shields that will be employed in sensitive measurement devices and aerospace structures. The work will involve exploring using laser powder bed fusion technology to manufacture customised topologically optimised magnetic shields. The shields will be characterised for the magnetic and mechanical performance, especially looking into the influence of post-processing. The project will include liaising with key stakeholders to explore the commercial feasibility of any recommendations.

Please note that the successful applicant will be employed by the University of Birmingham but will be primarily based at Magnetic Shields Limited premises in Headcorn Road, Staplehurst, Tonbridge, Kent TN12 0DS

The successful applicant will carry out research and manufacturing process evaluation to produce functional metallic materials using laser powder bed fusion technologies. This will involve performing the following investigations: powder characterisation, microstructural investigations, physical and mechanical properties characterisation.

• To facilitate the knowledge transfer of additive manufacturing of soft magnetic materials through conducting research.
• To understand the technology transfer challenges and share solutions to address them. Analyse and interpret research findings and results.
• To plan, design and deliver the research activities of the KTP programme, and to co- ordinate the research programme with the industrial sponsor of the project.
• Work within specified research grants and projects and contribute to writing bids. Operate within area of specialism.
• Contribute to generating funding.
• Contribute to licensing or spin out deals with demonstrated commercial success (such as revenues, asset or company sales, IP generated) and/or public understanding of the discipline or similar.
• To develop a strong understanding of MSL market and environment; working with colleagues to ascertain commercial feasibilities of project outcomes.

Qualifications : A PhD or EngD in one of the following subjects: Metallurgy and Material Science, Physics, Chemical, Mechanical, Electrical, or Manufacturing Engineering. A MSc or MEng in any of these subjects, alongside a relevant industrial experience, will also be considered. 

Knowledge & Experience:

• Significant research experience in Laser Powder Bed Fusion of Metallic Systems. CAD Modelling experience (SolidWorks and Materialise/Magics).
• Skilled in microstructural characterisation using analytical SEM and understanding of the relationship between microstructure and mechanical properties.
• Previous experience in functional properties measurements (magnetic properties). Experience in working with industry.
• Demonstrated capability in delivering world-class or international-leading research. Ability to communicate complex information clearly.
• Excellent writing skills and an ability to work as part of a large team. Ability to assess resource requirements and use resources effectively. High level analytical capability.
• Ability to communicate and present complex information clearly.
• Fluency in relevant models, techniques or methods and ability to contribute to developing new ones.

Informal enquires can be made to: Professor Moataz Attallah [email protected] .

Closes: 19th February 2024