Summary
The University of Sussex is offering a full-funded PhD studentship focused on microstructure and defect control in recycled aluminium alloys. This project aims to enhance the use of secondary aluminium alloys while maintaining their castability and performance. The successful candidate will collaborate closely with the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) and a leading aluminium producer, addressing significant challenges in aluminium manufacturing.
Designation
PhD Candidate
Full-Funded PhD Studentship on Microstructure and Defect Control in Recycled Aluminium Alloys (2026)
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Stipend | £21,805 per year (tax-free) |
| Duration | 3.5 years |
| Research Grant | One-off £2,000 Research and Training Support Grant |
| Award Type | Postgraduate Research |
| Available Scholarships | 1 |
Research Area
- Grain structure control
- Solidification defect studies
- Investigation of Fe impurities and casting defects in recycled aluminium alloys
Location
University of Sussex, School of Engineering and Informatics, UK, in collaboration with NTNU, Norway.
Eligibility/Qualification
- Upper second-class (2:1) undergraduate honours degree (or equivalent) in materials science, metallurgy, mechanical engineering, or a closely related field.
- Open to UK and overseas applicants.
- Experience in metallography, materials processing, or materials characterization is advantageous but not essential.
Job Description
The candidate will:
- Conduct studies on how grain refinement strategies and Fe impurity levels affect microstructure development and defect susceptibility during casting.
- Engage in collaborative pilot-scale studies, performing laboratory-scale casting experiments and near-industrial casting trials.
- Use advanced characterization techniques, including scanning and transmission electron microscopy, synchrotron X-ray imaging, and mechanical testing.
How to Apply
- Complete the online application for a full-time PhD in Engineering/Informatics/Cognitive Science.
- Include the following in your application:
- A research proposal.
- Your CV.
- Degree certificates and transcripts.
- Two references (minimum one from an institution studied at in the last 5 years).
- Proof of English language proficiency (if applicable).
- Clearly state that you are applying for the Full-funded PhD Studentship on Microstructure and Defect Control in Recycled Aluminium Alloys under the supervision of Dr. Shikang Feng.
Last Date for Application
October 2, 2026, at 23:45 GMT
For inquiries regarding the application process, contact FoSEM-PGR@sussex.ac.uk and for academic questions, reach out to Shikang.Feng@sussex.ac.uk.
