Research Assistant or Associate in Metal-metal Joining and Advanced Manufacturing

About the role:

We are seeking a motivated Postdoctoral Researcher to join a collaborative research programme focused on the development of innovative metal-metal joining processes for advanced engineering materials and components. The project is funded by the Leverhulme Trust and UK Industrial Fusion Solutions (UKIFS), offering the opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge manufacturing research with real-world industrial impact.

The successful candidate will work within a multidisciplinary team to investigate and optimise advanced joining technologies, combining experimental research, materials characterisation, process development and modelling approaches.

What you would be doing:

• You will develop and optimise the joining parameters, including interlayer selection, surface preparation, temperature, pressure, dwell time, and atmosphere conditions.
• You will investigate joining mechanisms, including interdiffusion, void closure, interface sealing, oxide management, and reaction layer formation.
• You will use thermo-mechanical testing systems, such as Gleeble, to evaluate bonding parameters on small specimens.
• You will scale selected bonding processes using mechanical test frames, such as Instron systems with induction heating or similar loading and heating methods.
• You will prepare, inspect, and characterise bonded specimens using microscopy and analysis techniques, including SEM, EBSD, and EDS.
• You will support non-destructive inspection of bonded specimens, including ultrasonic testing where required.
• You will develop and apply finite element simulations for process design, thermo-mechanical analysis, residual stress assessment, and interpretation of experimental results.

What we are looking for:

• You must hold a PhD (or near completion) in Mechanical Engineering/ Materials Science/ Metallurgy/ Manufacturing/ Physics, or a related discipline; candidates without a PhD will be considered for Research Assistant.
• Practical experience within a research environment and / or publication in relevant and refereed journals is essential.
• At Associate level, experience of dealing with project partners, industrial collaborators, research sponsors, technical staff, and/or multidisciplinary research teams is essential.
• You must have practical experience and knowledge in a broad range of techniques and principles, including:
  • Thermo-mechanical and mechanical processing and testing
  • Microscopy and microstructural characterisation
  • Mechanical behaviour of materials
  • Finite element modelling, simulation, and analysis
• Knowledge of research methods and statistical procedures is essential.

What we can offer you:

• Opportunities to collaborate with academic, industrial and national research partners.
• Support for professional development, conference participation and publication activities.
• The opportunity to continue your career at a world-leading institution
• Sector-leading salary and remuneration package (including 38 days off a year)