At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a dynamic team to advance wire additive manufacturing and contribute to groundbreaking research.
- Company: Cranfield University, a leader in engineering and applied sciences.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working hours, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Collaborate with industry leaders and enjoy a vibrant research environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in aerospace and defence through innovative research projects.
- Qualifications: PhD or nearing completion in relevant fields with experience in process development.
The predicted salary is between 37897 - 37897 £ per year.
Organisation: Cranfield University
Faculty or Department: Faculty of Engineering and Applied Sciences
Based at: Cranfield Campus, Cranfield, Bedfordshire
Hours of work: 37 hours per week, normally worked Monday to Friday. Flexible working will be considered.
Contract type: Fixed term contract
Fixed Term Period: For 12 Months
Salary: Full time starting salary is normally in the range of £37,897 per annum, pro rata
Apply by: 02/06/2026
About the Role
These are one year research-focused positions, with the potential for extension, providing an exciting opportunity for you to contribute to the next generation of wire additive manufacturing which will have a significant impact in both academia and industry. You will contribute to the delivery of major industry‑funded research programmes in collaboration with leading aerospace and defence partners. The project is focused on advancing wire‑based directed energy deposition (DED) additive manufacturing, advanced metallic materials, and hybrid process development for high‑performance engineering applications. Working as part of a multidisciplinary research team, you will support the technical execution and delivery of industrial research projects, ensuring that project objectives, milestones, and deliverables are achieved. The work will involve close collaboration with academic colleagues and industrial partners across multiple research areas, including design optimisation, materials performance, advanced manufacturing processes, and structural integrity.
About You
You will have a PhD (or close to completion) in advanced welding processes, additive manufacturing and process or material science, or similar field and have demonstrable relevant experience and achievements within process development and material characterisation. You will also have good knowledge of material properties, processing or process science. In addition, you will have a developing track record of publishing in high quality journals, excellent communication skills, planning and organisation skills, and excellent problem‑solving skills.
How to apply
For an informal discussion about this opportunity, please contact: Dr Jun Wang, Lecturer in Materials Science of Additive Manufacturing, on (E): jun.wang.123@cranfield.ac.uk or Dr Wojciech Suder, Senior Lecturer in Laser Processing and Additive Manufacture, on (E): w.j.suder@cranfield.ac.uk
Research Fellow in Additive Manufacturing (Materials and Processes) employer: Cranfield University
Contact Detail:
Cranfield University Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Fellow in Additive Manufacturing (Materials and Processes)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to professionals in the additive manufacturing field on LinkedIn or at industry events. We can’t stress enough how important it is to make connections that could lead to job opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Cranfield University and their projects. We recommend you understand their work in wire-based directed energy deposition and be ready to discuss how your skills align with their goals.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your expertise! Bring along examples of your previous research or publications to interviews. We want to see how your experience in advanced welding processes can contribute to their innovative projects.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. We’re here to help you every step of the way, so take that leap and submit your application!
We think you need these skills to ace Research Fellow in Additive Manufacturing (Materials and Processes)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of Research Fellow in Additive Manufacturing. Highlight your relevant experience in advanced welding processes and additive manufacturing, as well as any specific projects that align with the job description.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should tell us why you're the perfect fit for this position. Share your passion for wire additive manufacturing and how your skills can contribute to our exciting research programmes. Don't forget to mention your track record in publishing!
Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills: In your application, give examples of how you've tackled challenges in your previous work. We want to see your excellent problem-solving skills in action, especially in relation to materials performance and process development.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves, so don’t miss out on this opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at Cranfield University
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest advancements in wire additive manufacturing and related materials. Familiarise yourself with key concepts like directed energy deposition and hybrid process development, as these will likely come up during your chat.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare to discuss your PhD work and any relevant projects you've been involved in. Highlight specific achievements in process development and material characterisation, and be ready to explain how they relate to the role at Cranfield University.
✨Communicate Clearly
Since excellent communication skills are a must, practice explaining complex technical concepts in simple terms. This will not only demonstrate your understanding but also show that you can collaborate effectively with both academic colleagues and industry partners.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the research programmes and collaborations at Cranfield. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you understand how you can contribute to their goals in advancing additive manufacturing.