At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct groundbreaking research on aerospace powder recycling and solid-state processing.
- Company: Join the University of Sheffield, a world-class institution with a vibrant community.
- Benefits: Enjoy 41+ days of annual leave, flexible working, and generous pension schemes.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to innovation and personal development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in advanced materials research and contribute to sustainability.
- Qualifications: PhD in science or engineering, with expertise in thermomechanical processing and materials modelling.
The predicted salary is between 38784 - 47389 £ per year.
The University of Sheffield is a remarkable place to work. Our people are at the heart of everything we do. Their diverse backgrounds, abilities and beliefs make Sheffield a world-class university. We offer a fantastic range of benefits including a highly competitive annual leave entitlement, a generous pensions scheme, flexible working opportunities, a commitment to your development and wellbeing, a wide range of retail discounts, and much more.
Overview: The University of Sheffield is leading an Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council project to recycle aerospace waste through field-assisted sintering technology and continuous extrusion. This project requires pioneering ground-breaking, distinctive system-level approaches to solid-state processing dedicated to maximising the life of high-integrity sector products. The STAR group is delivering tighter circularity loops in high-integrity engineering sectors. This exciting post will develop solid-state processing routes from waste streams and provide feedstock for wire additive manufacturing routes to create mechanical properties for new components produced from recycled critical metals. The research posts will also use equipment in the Henry Royce Institute at The University of Sheffield, which is part of the UK's national centre for advanced materials research, innovation and commercialisation.
Main duties and responsibilities:
- Write a literature review and supporting documents to contribute to and support the work of the Research team, e.g. reports and interim reports.
- Plan research effectively and report to the supervisory team.
- Coordinate and liaise with industrial members of the project team and industry collaborators.
- Continuously monitor and check results.
- Carry out research utilising field-assisted sintering and continuous extrusion technologies.
- Undertake finite element modelling of thermomechanical processes.
- Characterise the microstructure of material produced during solid-state processing trials, using standard metallographic preparation and electron backscatter diffraction and transmission electron microscopy techniques.
- Utilise appropriate finite element and multi-physics modelling software to support the research deliverables.
- Carry out other duties, commensurate with the grade and remit of the post.
Person Specification: Our diverse community of staff and students recognises the unique abilities, backgrounds, and beliefs of all. We foster a culture where everyone feels they belong and is respected. Even if your past experience doesn't match perfectly with this role's criteria, your contribution is valuable, and we encourage you to apply. Please ensure that you reference the application criteria in the application statement when you apply.
- A PhD, or a relevant equivalent qualification, in a science or engineering discipline — Essential (Application)
- A strong scientific or engineering background with a broad knowledge of Advanced Materials research, specific expertise in thermomechanical processing, titanium metallurgy and an ability to understand and communicate its key technological aspects — Essential (Application)
- Experience of work in multiscale materials modelling — Essential (Application)
- Experience of traditional metals processing of titanium and steel in an industrial environment — Desirable (Interview)
- Experience in solid-state powder processing and hot forging — Essential (Application)
- Experience in interpreting flow stress and field-assisted sintering data — Essential (Application)
- High level of competency in electron microscopy (SEM, EBSD and TEM) — Essential (Application)
- Experience in non-destructive evaluation and mechanical testing methods — Desirable (Interview)
- Ability to plan, organise and execute to ensure the production of the agreed deliverables to the project plan — Essential (Interview)
- Outstanding interpersonal and communication skills, and an ability to deal with both scientific and commercial issues authoritatively — Essential (Interview)
- Self-motivation and the capability of being a team player as well as a team leader — Essential (Interview)
Further Information: Grade: 7 Salary: £38,784 - £47,389 per annum Work arrangement: Full-time Duration: Fixed-term until 31.03.2027 Line manager: Professor Martin Jackson Direct reports: N/A
Next steps in the recruitment process: The selection process will take place in Sept 2026. This will consist of a panel interview and a short presentation. We plan to let candidates know if they have progressed to the selection stage as soon as possible after the closing date. If you need any support, equipment or adjustments to enable you to participate in any element of the recruitment process please contact cmbe-staffing-contracts@sheffield.ac.uk.
What we offer: A minimum of 41 days annual leave including bank holiday and closure days (pro rata) with the ability to purchase more. Flexible working opportunities, including hybrid working for some roles. Generous pension scheme. A wide range of discounts and rewards on shopping, eating out and travel. A variety of staff networks, providing opportunities for social interaction, peer support and personal development. Recognition Awards to reward staff who go above and beyond in their role. A commitment to your development access to learning and mentoring schemes; integrated with our Academic Career Pathways / Professional Services Shared Skills Framework. A range of generous family-friendly policies.
Research Associate - FAST Processing and Extrusion of Aerospace Powder in Sheffield employer: Diversity Dashboard
Diversity Dashboard is an exceptional employer that prioritises inclusivity and professional growth, making it an ideal place for those passionate about tackling inequality and poverty. With a flexible working environment in the vibrant city of Edinburgh, employees benefit from a supportive work culture that encourages collaboration and continuous learning, ensuring that every team member can thrive in their role while making a meaningful impact in the community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Associate - FAST Processing and Extrusion of Aerospace Powder in Sheffield
✨Join Aerospace Forums and Groups
Get involved in aerospace engineering forums and online communities, like the AIAA (American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics). It's a great way to meet industry peers and stay updated on job openings and trends in the field.
✨Attend Industry Conferences
Keep an eye on upcoming aerospace conferences and events where you can network with professionals and showcase your interest. Events like the Farnborough International Airshow are not just about flying machines; they're a goldmine for connections and potential job leads.
✨Spotlight Your Projects
Make sure to highlight any hands-on experience or projects on your portfolio that showcase your skills in aerospace engineering. Employers love seeing practical applications of theoretical knowledge. Show us what you've got!
✨Apply Directly on Company Websites
When you find companies you want to work for, head straight to their careers page to apply for full-time roles, like the one with Diversity Dashboard for a Research Associate - FAST Processing and Extrusion of Aerospace Powder. This often puts your application in front of the right people faster than just waiting for job boards!
We think you need these skills to ace Research Associate - FAST Processing and Extrusion of Aerospace Powder in Sheffield
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Technical Skills:When applying for the aerospace engineering role at Diversity Dashboard, make sure to highlight your technical expertise. Include specific software skills, like CAD tools or simulation software, and any relevant engineering projects you’ve worked on. This is your chance to really shine and showcase your engineering toolkit!
Don't Skip Your Projects!:Include a section in your CV dedicated to projects that demonstrate your problem-solving abilities in aerospace engineering. Whether it's a university project, an internship, or personal work, we love seeing how you’ve applied your skills in real-world scenarios. Make it clear what your role was and the impact of the project.
Show Your Passion in Your Cover Letter:At Diversity Dashboard, we're not just looking for skills – we want to know why you’re passionate about aerospace engineering. Use your cover letter to express what excites you about aviation technology and your career goals. Share any relevant experiences or inspirations that have led you to apply for this full-time position.
Tailor Your CV for Aerospace:Make sure your CV is specifically tailored to aerospace engineering. Focus on your education, any certifications, and your work experience, ensuring you highlight aspects that relate directly to the role. Don’t forget to mention any internships or apprenticeships that have given you hands-on experience.
How to prepare for a job interview at Diversity Dashboard
✨Brush Up on Your Technical Knowledge
Aerospace engineering is all about technical precision, so make sure you’re comfortable with key concepts like aerodynamics, propulsion, and materials science. We recommend going through any relevant coursework or projects you’ve worked on – these real-world examples can illustrate your understanding during the interview with Diversity Dashboard.
✨Showcase Your Projects with Confidence
Make sure to have a portfolio ready that details any significant projects you've worked on, whether it’s a group assignment or a personal endeavour. Be prepared to discuss the challenges you faced, the tools you used, like CAD software, and what you learned from the experience, as this will show your problem-solving skills in action.
✨Prepare for Technical Interviews
Expect some technical questions or even problem-solving exercises during your interview with Diversity Dashboard. Get familiar with design challenges or theoretical problems related to aerospace; this can range from calculating lift and drag forces to materials selection under stress. Practising these can help you feel more at ease when faced with tricky questions.
✨Emphasise Your Passion and Teamwork Skills
As a full-time candidate, it’s crucial to convey your passion for aerospace engineering and your ability to work in teams. Highlight any group projects or internships you've done, focusing on how you collaborated with others to achieve a goal. Companies like Diversity Dashboard love seeing candidates who not only have technical skills but also fit well within their team culture.
