Research Assistant or Associate in Computational Modelling of Dislocation Plasticity and Fatigue

We are seeking a motivated Research Assistant or Research Associate to join an EPSRC-funded project investigating the micro-mechanisms of thermal fatigue in high-temperature nickel-based alloys and/or other precipitate-strengthened alloys used in aerospace and nuclear applications.

Working with Dr Christos Skamniotis and collaborators at the University of Twente, the University of Leicester, Rolls-Royce plc and UKAEA, you will develop advanced computational Multiphysics models to study the behaviour and interactions of crystallographic dislocations under extreme thermal and mechanical loads experienced in real service environments. The project combines cutting‑edge Discrete Dislocation Plasticity (DDP) modelling complemented by Crystal Plasticity Finite Element (CPFE) modelling to address fundamental questions related to fatigue damage and material performance.

You will contribute to the development of in‑house MATLAB and C++ modelling tools, collaborate with leading academic and industrial partners, and help advance research supporting the design of next‑generation materials for demanding engineering environments.

What you would be doing:

• You will develop in‑depth understanding of dislocation structure evolution within the microstructure of precipitate‑strengthened alloys, under thermal‑mechanical load cycling.
• You will develop state‑of‑the‑art 2D Discrete Dislocation Plasticity (DDP) code and leverage existing Crystal Plasticity Finite Element (CPFE) code via collaboration with world‑leading experts in Dislocation Plasticity, Diffusion Kinetics, and Computing.
• You will produce high‑quality publications in prestigious journals.
• You will present findings to industrial partners and attend regular meetings with academic/industrial project partners at Imperial, Oxford and Loughborough.
• You will co‑supervise PhD students working on this project and relevant projects within Dr Skamniotis’ group.
• You will promote the reputation of the Group, the Department and the College.

What we are looking for:

• You must hold a PhD (or near completion) in Mechanical Engineering/Materials Engineering/Materials Science/Physics, or a related discipline; candidates without a PhD will be considered for Research Assistant.
• At Associate level, experience of dealing with sponsors is essential.
• Practical experience within a research environment and/or publication in relevant and refereed journals is essential.
• You must have practical experience in computational modelling (Finite Element analysis, MATLAB).
• You must have knowledge of Advanced Solid Mechanics theory, including advanced Elasticity and Plasticity.
• Knowledge of research methods is essential.

What we can offer you:

• The opportunity to work on a cutting‑edge research programme addressing critical challenges in sustainable aviation and hydrogen technologies.
• Collaboration with leading researchers across Imperial College London, the University of Oxford and industrial partners.
• The opportunity to continue your career at a world‑leading institution.
• Sector‑leading salary and remuneration package (including 38 days off a year).

This position is fixed term and is expected to run for up to 3 years. In person attendance is required 5 days per week, as per the needs of the role.