Funder
EPSRC and Rolls‑Royce
Duration
3.5 years from 1 October 2026
Supervisors
Prof NG Jones & Dr NL Church
Location
The PhD studentship will be based at the University of Cambridge in the Department of Materials Science and Metallurgy as part of the Structural Materials Group. The Structural Materials Group is a diverse and dynamic research team working across aerospace, automotive, energy, defence, and biomedical sectors. The group's expertise includes alloy design, microstructure–property relationships, phase transformations, and advanced materials processing.
Closing date
23 Jan 2026
Stipend
Full funding for 3.5 years covering a personal maintenance stipend starting at £20,780 per annum with a top‑up of £5,500 per annum from Rolls‑Royce.
Fees
These positions are open to UK citizens or overseas students who meet the UK residency requirements (home fees) or are able to augment the funds to cover the extra costs associated with international student fees. Exceptional candidates may be eligible for an International Fee Bursary.
Project
The influence of Si in alpha+beta titanium alloys has been explored through a comprehensive research programme. The alpha + beta titanium alloy Ti6Al-4V (wt%) has been used extensively by aeroengine manufacturers due to its good balance of properties and relatively low density, yet questions remain regarding the influence of individual alloying elements on phase partitioning and deformation micromechanics, particularly at high strain rates. This PhD project will examine how Si additions affect the microstructural development and mechanical performance of solute‑lean alpha + beta titanium alloys.
Responsibilities
* Produce systematic series of model alloys through arc melting, hot rolling and heat treatments.
* Characterise microstructure by electron microscopy (scanning and transmission) and X‑ray diffraction, supported by differential scanning calorimetry.
* Assess quasi‑static mechanical performance via small‑scale tensile testing, including advanced in‑situ testing in Cambridge and at national synchrotron facilities.
* Conduct complementary high‑strain‑rate testing in partnership with industry to develop a mechanistic understanding of compositional effects on alloy performance.
Qualifications
* Good UK Master’s degree (or overseas equivalent) in Materials Science, Chemistry, Physics, Engineering or a closely related field.
* Self‑motivated, able to take ownership of research and effectively communicate findings.
* Previous experience with computational or experimental methods is advantageous; training will be provided.
Application Process
Applications should be submitted via the University Application Portal: www.postgraduate.study.cam.ac.uk/apply. Please quote reference LJ48386 and provide it in all correspondence. Early applications are encouraged as the position may be filled once a suitable candidate is identified.
Contact
Informal enquiries can be sent to structuralmaterials@msm.cam.ac.uk.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society. The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.
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