Research Associate - Designing Steels for Impurity Tolerance

University of Sheffield; Sheffield; On-site; GBP 38,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

A reputable UK university in Sheffield is seeking a Research Associate to develop cutting-edge techniques in steel processing. The role involves leading the production and characterisation of steel, ensuring quality and performance while collaborating with industry leaders. The successful candidate should have a strong background in steel research, excellent analytical skills, and the ability to work in a diverse team. A competitive salary and opportunities for professional growth are offered.

Qualifications

• Experience in processing and characterisation of steel materials.
• Proven track record in scientific research and publications.
• Ability to collaborate effectively in a team environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead the production and processing of steels.
• Characterise microstructure and mechanical performance.
• Work with atomistic modellers to inform steel design.

Skills

Steel research

Microstructural characterisation

Mechanical properties analysis

Critical analysis

Problem-solving skills

Education

Relevant educational background in material science or engineering

Job description

Job description

We have an exciting opportunity in the School for a Research Associate working on a project that brings together cutting‑edge atomistic modelling and atomic‑scale characterisation at Imperial College with Sheffield’s renowned expertise in steel processing and microstructural characterisation. The research will focus on understanding the role of residual elements in both model alloys and commercially relevant steels used across a wide range of applications.

In this role, you will lead the production of steels—from melting through to full thermomechanical processing—and carry out detailed characterisation of microstructure and mechanical performance. You’ll link these findings to processing routes and composition, working closely with atomistic modellers to translate their insights into the design of next‑generation steels. Your work will directly inform recommendations for improved steel products, in close collaboration with our industrial partners.

The grant is led by the University of Sheffield in close collaboration with Imperial College. The grant will also work closely with its industrial sponsors in formulating and delivering the research. All major UK steel manufacturers are involved, namely Tata Steel, Liberty Steel and British Steel along with SKF (Netherlands) and ThyssenKrupp (Germany). You will therefore be part of a team of researchers.

The successful candidate will have the relevant educational background and work experience in steel research, namely: processing, microstructural characterisation and mechanical properties. You will have a good track record in carrying out independent and original scientific research and publication of research papers. You should have the ability to work and communicate efficiently with other members of the team (supervisors, students and postdocs), and collaborators outside the University. Critical analysis of experimental results and problem‑solving skills will be essential to this role.

We build teams of people from different heritages and lifestyles from across the world, whose talent and contributions complement each other to greatest effect. We believe diversity in all its forms delivers greater impact through research, teaching and student experience.

£38,784 to £47,389 per annum. Potential to progress to £51,753 per annum through sustained exceptional contribution.