We are seeking a highly motivated Research Assistant/Fellow to join the Brunel Centre for Advanced Solidification Technology (BCAST) at Brunel University London, contributing to the Innovate UK‑funded SMART‑HEAT PRO project – a scalable AI‑enabled digital platform to transform industrial heat treatment processes, improve energy efficiency, reduce scrap and enable real‑time optimisation through machine learning and advanced sensor integration.
Location: Brunel University London, Uxbridge Campus
Hours: Full‑time
Contract Type: Fixed‑term 10 months
Responsibilities
* Design and conduct experimental heat treatment trials for aluminium alloys, generating high‑quality datasets for model development
* Develop and enhance machine learning algorithms, software and systems for the heat treatment process
* Perform advanced materials characterisation (SEM, hardness testing, microstructural analysis) to validate process outcomes
* Validate physics‑informed machine learning models for process optimisation
* Collaborate with industrial partners to integrate metallurgical insights into real‑time control systems
* Contribute to the development of a digital materials knowledge base linking process parameters to performance outcomes
* Prepare technical reports, publications and presentations for both academic and industrial audiences
Qualifications
* PhD or relevant degree in Materials Science, Metallurgy, Mechanical or Computer Engineering, or a related discipline
* Strong knowledge of aluminium alloys and heat treatment processes
* Experience in materials characterisation techniques (SEM, EBSD, mechanical testing)
* Interest or experience in data‑driven methods, machine learning or digital manufacturing
* Ability to work collaboratively across academic and industrial environments
Desirable
* Experience in AI/ML applied to materials or manufacturing
* Familiarity with digital twin concepts or process modelling
* Experience working on collaborative R&D or Innovate UK projects
Benefits
We offer a generous annual leave package plus discretionary University closure days, excellent training and development opportunities, a competitive occupational pension scheme and a range of health‑related support. The University is committed to a hybrid working approach.
Salary
Research Assistant: £36 640 to £38 638 (inclusive of London weighting), with potential progression to £39 682. Research Fellow: £40 757 to £44 179 (inclusive of London weighting), with potential progression to £52 067.
Closing date
25 May 2026
Equal Opportunity
Brunel University London has a strong commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion. Our aim is to promote and achieve a fully inclusive workforce that reflects our community.
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