At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct innovative research on aerospace powder recycling and advanced materials processing.
- Company: Join the University of Sheffield, a world-class institution with a diverse community.
- Benefits: Enjoy 41 days annual leave, flexible working, and a generous pension scheme.
- Other info: Be part of a dynamic team with excellent career growth opportunities and a commitment to diversity.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in aerospace technology while developing your skills in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: PhD or equivalent in science/engineering, with expertise in advanced materials and thermomechanical processing.
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.
Overview
The University of Sheffield are leading an Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council project to recycle aerospace waste through field-assisted sintering technology and continuous extrusion that requires pioneering a ground-breaking, distinctive system-level approach to solid-state processing dedicated to the pressing challenge of maximising the life of high-integrity sector products. Encompassing technical, business model, supply chain, culture, risk, standards and commercial considerations, the STAR group are delivering tighter circularity loops in high-integrity engineering sectors.
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 research utilising field-assisted sintering and continuous extrusion technologies.
- Undertake finite element modelling of thermomechanical processes.
- Characterise the microstructure of material produced used 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.
Criteria
- Essential: A PhD, or a relevant equivalent qualification, in a science or engineering discipline.
- Essential: 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: Experience of work in multiscale materials modelling.
- Desirable: Experience of traditional metals processing of titanium and steel in an industrial environment.
- Essential: Experience in solid-state powder processing and hot forging.
- Essential: Experience in interpreting flow stress and field-assisted sintering data.
- Essential: High level of competency in electron microscopy (SEM, EBSD and TEM).
- Desirable: Experience in non-destructive evaluation and mechanical testing methods.
- Essential: Ability to plan, organise and execute to ensure the production of the agreed deliverables to the project plan.
- Essential: Outstanding interpersonal and communication skills, and an ability to deal with both scientific and commercial issues authoritatively.
- Essential: Self-motivation and the capability of being a team player as well as a team leader.
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.
Research Associate - FAST Processing and Extrusion of Aerospace Powder in Sheffield employer: The University of Sheffield
The University of Sheffield is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that prioritises diversity and inclusion. With a commitment to employee development, generous benefits including extensive annual leave, flexible working arrangements, and a supportive environment for personal growth, the university fosters a sense of belonging and respect among its staff. Join us in making a meaningful impact through innovative research in a world-class academic setting.
Contact Details:
The University of Sheffield Recruitment Team
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 The University of Sheffield 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 The University of Sheffield, 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 The University of Sheffield, 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 The University of Sheffield
✨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 The University of Sheffield.
✨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 The University of Sheffield. 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 The University of Sheffield love seeing candidates who not only have technical skills but also fit well within their team culture.
