Research Assistant in Materials Engineering (Fixed Term)

Economics Network; Cambridge; Remote; GBP 28,000 - 33,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Cambridge invites applications for a Research Assistant in the Department of Engineering to study mechanics of fusion materials. You will perform mechanical testing and microscopy to understand deformation and damage in refractory alloys, under extreme loading and irradiation conditions.

The role involves tensile, toughness and fatigue tests, EBSD and TEM analysis, and developing equipment such as a vacuum furnace and cryogenic testing system.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering Science or Materials Science and Engineering required.
• Master's degree preferred.
• Experience with mechanical testing and microscopy; knowledge of ASTM E399, E1820, E647.

Responsibilities

• Conduct mechanical characterization including tensile, toughness and fatigue tests.
• Perform electron microscopy characterization (EBSD and TEM) and data analysis.
• Develop equipment including a micronotcher, vacuum furnace and cryogenic testing system.
• Collaborate with Cambridge group and external collaborators; present findings; assist with grant administration.

Job description

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.

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 4 months in the first instance.

If you have any questions about this vacancy or the application process, please contact Dr David Cook by email at [e-mail].

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.