At a Glance
- Tasks: Join us in pioneering next-gen casting technologies for sustainable transport vehicles.
- Company: University of Hull is a leading research university committed to diversity and sustainability.
- Benefits: Enjoy generous leave, excellent training, and a great pension scheme.
- Why this job: Be part of impactful research that shapes a greener future while collaborating with diverse teams.
- Qualifications: PhD in materials science or engineering; experience in metal casting and solidification required.
- Other info: Applications close on 5th Aug 2025; interviews via Microsoft Teams.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 48000 £ per year.
At University of Hull, we know diversity fosters creativity and innovation, and we want our community to represent the diversity of the world\’s talent. We are committed to equality of opportunity, to being fair and inclusive, and to being a place where we all belong. We therefore particularly encourage applications from candidates who are likely to be underrepresented in University of Hull workplace.
These include people from global majority backgrounds; people who have a declared disability; LGBTQI+ people; and women particularly for our Grade 9 and 10 roles.
University of Hull is a leading multidisciplinary research-intensive university in North England, UK. Our university’s 2030 strategy is to develop and shape a fairer, brighter and carbon-neutral future. Our mission is to advance education, scholarship, knowledge and understanding through teaching and research, for the benefit of individuals and society at large. We have put environmental sustainability and social justice at the heart of our strategy. For more information please visit: https://www.hull.ac.uk/choose-hull/university-and-region/key-documents/strategic-plan
This Postdoctoral Research Fellow is to work on and contribute to the delivery of a collaborative project funded by EPSRC entitled ‘ Development of next generation disruptive mega-casting technologies for green and sustainable transportation vehicles (MegaCast) ’. Please see the very recent EPSRC announcement: https://www.ukri.org/news/new-research-hubs-to-cut-carbon-and-reshape-uk-manufacturing/?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery
The duties that are required for this specific role includes:
- Designing, making and optimising aluminium-based alloys for high pressure die casting and other casting techniques.
- Nano, microstructure and mechanical properties characterization of the cast samples.
- In-situ and real-time studies of the fundamentals of liquid melt filling and solidification processes under different casting conditions.
- Supporting the research activities of other project partners to deliver the collaborative research objectives.
- Write experimental and project progress reports and final reports of the project.
- Write and deliver scientific presentations at internal seminars and project progress meetings, and at national and international conferences.
- Write and publish high quality research papers in high impact materials, metallurgy and manufacturing journals
- Work collaboratively with other members of the research group, including mutual assistance with research activities, and with external partners outside University of Hull.
The successful candidate should have:
- PhD degree (or close to completion) in materials science and engineering, manufacturing or other suitable engineering disciplines.
- Research experience in solidification and casting of metallic materials, and in-depth research knowledge and hands-on skills of microstructure and mechanical properties characterisation of metallic materials, in particular in-situ and real-time studies of the liquid metal flow and solidification dynamics using synchrotron X-rays.
- Good and effective communication and presentation skills and a good team player.
We offer a generous annual leave package, excellent training and development opportunities as well as a great occupational pension scheme.
Closing date for applications: 5th Aug 2025
Interviews will take place on the week starting from 18 August 2025 virtually using Microsoft Teams.
For further details about the post including the Job Description and Person Specification and to apply please click on the apply button.
All applicants should be eligible to live and work in the UK for the duration of any offer of appointment, for research posts.
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Further details:
- Job Description
- Candidate Pack
- Equality and Diversity Document
Please note that we are unable to respond to enquiries, accept CVs or applications from Recruitment Agencies. #J-18808-Ljbffr
Postdoctoral Research Fellow - Mechanical Engineering employer: University of Hull
Contact Detail:
University of Hull Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Postdoctoral Research Fellow - Mechanical Engineering
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest advancements in mega-casting technologies and sustainable manufacturing. This knowledge will not only help you during interviews but also demonstrate your genuine interest in the project and its objectives.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the field of materials science and engineering, especially those involved in casting and solidification processes. Attend relevant conferences or webinars to make connections that could provide insights or even referrals for the position.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your previous research experiences in detail, particularly any hands-on work with microstructure characterisation and in-situ studies. Be ready to explain how these experiences align with the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your communication skills by preparing a short presentation on a relevant topic in your field. This will not only help you practice but also give you an edge during the interview process, as it demonstrates your ability to convey complex information effectively.
We think you need these skills to ace Postdoctoral Research Fellow - Mechanical Engineering
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Thoroughly read the job description for the Postdoctoral Research Fellow position. Pay attention to the specific duties and required qualifications, ensuring you understand what the University of Hull is looking for in a candidate.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience in materials science, engineering, and casting techniques. Emphasise your research experience, particularly in solidification and casting of metallic materials, as well as any hands-on skills you possess.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a compelling cover letter that outlines your motivation for applying, your relevant experience, and how you align with the university's commitment to diversity and sustainability. Make sure to address how your background can contribute to their mission.
Prepare for Interviews: If selected for an interview, prepare by reviewing common interview questions for research positions. Be ready to discuss your previous research, your approach to collaboration, and how you would contribute to the MegaCast project specifically.
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Hull
✨Understand the Project Goals
Familiarise yourself with the MegaCast project and its objectives. Be prepared to discuss how your skills in materials science and engineering can contribute to the development of sustainable transportation technologies.
✨Showcase Your Research Experience
Highlight your previous research experience, especially in solidification and casting of metallic materials. Be ready to provide specific examples of your hands-on skills and any relevant projects you've worked on.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect technical questions related to aluminium-based alloys, microstructure characterisation, and in-situ studies. Brush up on your knowledge and be ready to explain complex concepts clearly and concisely.
✨Demonstrate Team Collaboration Skills
Since the role involves working collaboratively with other researchers, be prepared to discuss your experiences in teamwork. Share examples of how you've supported colleagues in achieving research objectives and how you handle group dynamics.