A position exists for a Research Assistant in the Department of Engineering, to work on mechanics of fusion materials. The post holder will be located in Central Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, UK.
We are starting a new research project focused on developing damage-tolerant materials for space and fusion-energy applications with an emphasis on refractory, body-centered cubic alloys, and high stacking fault energy alloys. Materials used in space and fusion systems must retain their structural integrity under extreme combinations of mechanical loading, temperature, and irradiation. These materials are often very brittle, but new processing techniques, including but not limited to additive manufacturing, can potentially mitigate this issue. The project will investigate the fundamental mechanisms that govern deformation and damage in these materials and use this understanding to identify new approaches to their design.
The role holder will conduct experimental research to characterise how candidate materials deform plastically (if at all) and resist fracture.
The work will involve performing mechanical characterisation including tensile, toughness and fatigue testing at room and elevated temperatures, performing electron microscopy characterisation including electron backscatter diffraction and transmission electron microscopy, and analysing/interpreting the resulting data. The candidate will be familiar with ASTM E399, E1820, and E647, dislocation mechanics, and microscopy techniques. The job will also include developing equipment including a micronotcher, vacuum-furnace and cryogenic testing system. The findings will be used to establish a first principles understanding and for the development of materials with improved resistance to damage and neutron irradiation.
The role holder will work closely with other members of the research group at Cambridge and with external collaborators, including at Lawrence Livermore National Labs. They will be expected to contribute to group meetings, present their findings, prepare research publications, and assist with grant administration.
The skills, qualifications and experience required to perform the roles are wide. The specific skills include excellent laboratory skills and data analysis capabilities.
The applicant is expected to have at least a Bachelor's degree in Engineering Science or Materials Science and Engineering. A Master's degree is preferable.
Salary Range
£33,662 - £36,320
Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 4 months in the first instance.
Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.
Please ensure that you upload your Curriculum Vitae (CV), a covering letter and publication list in the Upload section of the online application. If you upload any additional documents which have not been requested, we will not be able to consider these as part of your application. Please submit your application by midnight on the closing date.
If you have any questions about this vacancy or the application process, please contact Dr David Cook by email at dhc40@cam.ac.uk.
Please quote reference NM51485 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.
The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.
The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.
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Key information
Department/location
Department of Engineering
Salary
£33,662 - £36,320
Reference
NM51485
Category
Date published
22 October 2026
Closing date
6 November 2026