PhD Studentship: Advanced Characterisation of Oxygen Uptake in Additively Manufactured Refractory Alloys

Are you passionate about pushing the boundaries of materials science and contributing to the development of next-generation technologies? We invite you to join an exciting PhD project focused on transforming the manufacturing of refractory alloys (e.g., W, Ta, Nb) – crucial materials for space, biomedical, and nuclear applications. These alloys, known for their exceptional high melting points, wear resistance and biocompatibility, are currently hindered by manufacturing challenges due to their oxygen-induced brittleness.

A 3.5-year studentship is available for this project in the School of Metallurgy and Materials at UoB, a global top 100 institution. The PhD will be supervised by Dr Yuanbo (Tony) Tang, with Professors Moataz Attallah and Roger Reed FREng as co-supervisors.

Why This Project?

Traditional methods such as powder metallurgy and hot isostatic pressing (HIP) are limited by their cost, geometrical complexity, and lack of flexibility in alloy composition. This project offers a groundbreaking opportunity to make 3D printing the preferred route for producing these advanced materials, overcoming current limitations. However, a major technical hurdle lies in these alloys' high affinity for oxygen, which can cause embrittlement and degrade their mechanical properties. Understanding and addressing this challenge is the core aim of this PhD.

What You Will Do:

As part of this project, you will investigate the oxygen ingress mechanisms in refractory alloys through multi-length scale characterisation. Using state-of-the-art techniques, such as the UK's only Tri-Beam microscope, laser and electron beam melting, and high-resolution TEM, you will unravel the complexities of oxygen-induced embrittlement and work towards developing predictive models to mitigate these effects.

Collaborative Opportunities:

This is an exceptional opportunity to gain training and experience with cutting-edge technology under the guidance of technical experts. You will be part of a dynamic, multidisciplinary research group at the University of Birmingham, collaborating with renowned academic partners from Oxford University, Shimane University, and Tohoku University in Japan. You will also work closely with industrial partners such as UKAEA, Alloyed Ltd, JAXA, and NTT DATA XAM, providing invaluable insight into real-world applications.

Why Choose This PhD?

• Play a key role in advancing manufacturing technology for materials critical to space, biomedical, and nuclear industries.
• Access to world-class equipment and methodologies to conduct your research.
• Join a vibrant international research network, with opportunities to collaborate with top universities and leading industry players.
• Gain expertise in high-demand, interdisciplinary fields, and make connections that will shape your career.

Who we are looking for:

1. Motivated, inquisitive, and passionate about materials science and engineering.
2. Have (or will) obtained a first-class or upper-second-class degree in materials science, mechanical engineering, condensed matter physics, or a closely related field.
3. No prior experience in experimental or modelling work is required – we welcome motivated candidates eager to learn and grow in the field. However, prior exposure to characterisation techniques, additive manufacturing, powder metallurgy, or modelling will be an advantage.

How to apply:

Please send a covering email to Dr Yuanbo (Tony) Tang (y.t.tang@bham.ac.uk) to explain your motivation and attach a CV and an academic transcript.

Funding notes:

Funding is available for home (UK) students covering home fees (~£4.2k pa) and a stipend (~£18.6k pa) for 3.5 years. For international students, this will only cover the home fees portion and stipend but NOT the full overseas fees. Fully self-funded students (with an external scholarship for example) are also encouraged to apply.

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