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- Tasks: Support high-value research on materials and lead projects in aerospace and other sectors.
- Company: Join the AFRC, a leader in materials research and innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, potential for remote work, and opportunities for professional development.
- Why this job: Be part of cutting-edge research impacting industries like aerospace, automotive, and energy.
- Qualifications: Good honours degree and PhD or equivalent experience in relevant disciplines required.
- Other info: Open to candidates with varying experience; potential for Grade 6 appointment.
The predicted salary is between 31145 - 37843 £ per year.
The AFRC is seeking to appoint an experienced Materials Knowledge Exchange (KE) Associate or Assistant (depending on experience) to support the delivery of high value research programmes focused on materials, processing of materials related to solid state joining & additive technologies, and manufacturing.
Recently, the Centre has invested significantly in novel forging, solid state joining, advanced materials characterisations, and mechanical testing equipment suitable for large scale investigations and continues to develop a multi-disciplinary group that specialises in this area of additive and welding technologies.
To further capitalise on this research activity and materialise AFRC’s vision and agenda around processing of materials and Industry 4.0, a Materials KE Associate is required to support the delivery of scientific research programmes and lead projects on processing of existing and new alloys, microstructure control, and materials/microstructure modelling.
Though the primary focus will be on aerospace materials, there is also a significant interest and body of work on materials for the Automotive, Oil & Gas, Energy, and Defence sectors. The candidate will also be expected to support and contribute to high value industrial funding proposals in support of a range of projects across the Centre.
The post holder will be expected to work between the AFRC and its industrial and academic partners, and there will be a strong emphasis on knowledge exchange.
To achieve the above, the KE will preferably require some research and/or industrial experience in the following technical areas:
- A broad knowledge of metallic materials and alloys, especially those relevant to the aerospace sector (e.g. Nickel based superalloys, Titanium alloys, and Aluminium alloys)
- A broad knowledge of additive and/or joining technologies
- A good basic knowledge of materials and the way that manufacturing processes can develop or modify materials' microstructure and their impact on mechanical properties.
- Hands-on experience with techniques of materials characterization and analysis of data, e.g. SEM, EBSD, optical microscopy
- Hands-on experience on mechanical testing for a range of conditions, i.e. low to high strain rate, room to high temperature, bulk vs sheet material, and development of material models
- The use of finite element-based software (e.g. ABAQUS, DEFORM) for process simulation and materials modelling
Thus, you will have an established track record in providing engineering solutions in an industrial context as well as experience of supporting research and development of manufacturing processes. You will have excellent troubleshooting skills, including a methodical approach to solve complex problems, and you will have the ability to work as part of a multi-disciplinary team.
To be considered for the role, you will have a good honours degree and PhD / higher degree (or equivalent professional experience) in an appropriate discipline. You will have sufficient knowledge in the relevant disciplines to contribute to knowledge exchange programmes and to the development of knowledge exchange activities. You will have the ability to conduct individual knowledge exchange projects, work directly and independently with clients, and to prepare new knowledge exchange proposals.
Though not essential, applications are welcomed from candidates with: membership/working towards membership of a relevant Chartered/professional body (including the Higher Education Academy), experience of relevant student supervision, and teaching activities.
Whilst we seek to appoint at Grade 7, KE Associate level, candidates with less experience may also be considered for appointment. Dependent on the skills and experience of the candidate, appointment to Grade 6, KE Assistant.
Salary: £37,174 to £45,413 per annum
Materials KE Associate (694406) employer: Economicsnetwork
Contact Detail:
Economicsnetwork Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Materials KE Associate (694406)
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest advancements in materials science, particularly in aerospace and additive technologies. This knowledge will not only help you during interviews but also demonstrate your genuine interest in the field.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the materials engineering sector, especially those involved in aerospace and manufacturing. Attend relevant conferences or workshops to make connections that could lead to valuable insights or referrals.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific projects or experiences where you've applied your knowledge of metallic materials and alloys. Highlight any hands-on experience with materials characterisation techniques and mechanical testing, as these are crucial for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your problem-solving skills by preparing examples of complex challenges you've faced in previous roles. Be ready to explain your methodical approach to troubleshooting, as this is a key requirement for the position.
We think you need these skills to ace Materials KE Associate (694406)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Thoroughly read the job description for the Materials KE Associate position. Make sure you understand the key responsibilities and required skills, especially those related to materials knowledge, processing technologies, and research experience.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience in materials science, particularly in aerospace materials and additive technologies. Emphasise any hands-on experience with materials characterisation and mechanical testing that aligns with the job requirements.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that connects your background and skills to the specific needs of the role. Mention your experience with knowledge exchange and how you can contribute to the AFRC's vision and projects.
Highlight Relevant Projects: In your application, include specific examples of past projects or research that demonstrate your expertise in metallic materials, microstructure control, and the use of finite element-based software. This will showcase your ability to lead projects effectively.
How to prepare for a job interview at Economicsnetwork
✨Showcase Your Technical Knowledge
Make sure to brush up on your understanding of metallic materials and alloys, especially those relevant to the aerospace sector. Be prepared to discuss specific examples of your experience with additive and joining technologies, as well as any hands-on experience you have with materials characterisation techniques.
✨Demonstrate Problem-Solving Skills
The role requires excellent troubleshooting skills. Prepare to share examples of complex problems you've solved in previous roles, particularly in an industrial context. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses.
✨Highlight Your Research Experience
Since the position involves supporting high-value research programmes, be ready to discuss your past research projects. Emphasise your contributions to knowledge exchange activities and how you've worked with both academic and industrial partners.
✨Prepare for Teamwork Questions
As the role involves working within a multi-disciplinary team, think of examples that showcase your ability to collaborate effectively. Be ready to discuss how you’ve contributed to team success and how you handle conflicts or differing opinions within a group.
