Materials Science and Engineering: Accelerating Sustainable Alloy Development using Machine Learning

About the Project

Key Information

Open to: UK fee eligible applicants only

Funding Providers: LSN Diffusion Ltd & Swansea University (IGNITE)

Subject Area: Materials Science and Engineering

Project Start Dates: October 2026

Supervisors:

• Professor Nicholas Lavery (Swansea University)
• Dr. Gavin Stratford (LSN Diffusion)
• Dr. Philip Allnatt (LSN Diffusion)
• Professor Cameron Pleydell-Pearce (Swansea University)

Aligned programme of study: PhD in Materials Science and Engineering

Mode of study: Full time

Place of study:

• Swansea University (Bay Campus)
• Other: LSN Diffusion (Ammanford)

Project description:

This project focuses on developing a novel, hybrid Integrated Computational Materials Engineering (ICME) framework to accelerate the discovery of advanced steel powders. By integrating Machine Learning (ML) with physics-based modelling (CALPHAD) and Rapid Alloy Prototyping, the successful candidate will create a "digital-first" workflow to optimize steel alloys for the nuclear and automotive sectors.

Key applications include:

1. Optimizing nuclear-grade low alloy steel for reactor pressure vessels.
2. Designing sustainable, corrosion-resistant alloys for automotive brake cladding to meet Euro 7 standards.
3. Developing Fe-based alloys for plasma-clad components as eco-friendly alternatives to Cobalt-Chromium.

This research is part of the IGNITE project, aiming to transition the UK steel industry toward a circular, net-zero economy.

Essential Skills:

• Programming proficiency (Python or MATLAB).
• Strong aptitude for computational modelling and data analysis.
• Knowledge of alloys, and the links between composition, processing, microstructures and properties (including tensile, fatigue, toughness and corrosion).

Desirable Skills:

• Experience with ML libraries (Scikit-learn, TensorFlow).
• Knowledge of CALPHAD (ThermoCalc) or FEA.
• Practical lab experience (Metallographic preparation, use of optical and SEM microscopes, XRD, mechanical testing).

Eligibility

UK fee eligible applicants only

Due to funding restrictions, this scholarship is open to applicants eligible to pay tuition fees at the UK rate only, as defined by UKCISA.

PhD: Applicants for PhD must hold an undergraduate degree at 2.1 level (or non-UK equivalent as defined by Swansea University) in Engineering or similar relevant science discipline.

English Language

IELTS 6.5 Overall (5.5+ each comp.) or Swansea University recognised equivalent.

Funding Notes

This scholarship covers the full cost of tuition fees and an annual stipend at UKRI rate (£21,805 for 2026/27).

Additional research expenses of up to £1,000 per year will also be available to cover both laboratory and travel/subsistence expenses.