Research Associate in Metal Additive Manufacturing

Location: South Kensington

About the role:

Are you ready to be part of the next industrial revolution? Do you want to shape the future of digital manufacturing and develop cutting-edge additive manufacturing (AM) technologies for real-world engineering applications?

We have an exciting opportunity for a Research Assistant/Associate to join a dynamic team working at the interface of digital manufacturing and advanced materials.

Additive Manufacturing (AM) is transforming how products are designed and produced - enabling more efficient, higher-performing components while reducing waste, cost, and lead times. This disruptive technology is a cornerstone of innovation across sectors such as clean energy, aerospace, healthcare, and automotive.

For AM to reach its full industrial potential, it's essential to ensure that parts meet the highest standards of quality and performance. This project will contribute to the development of a “qualify-as-you-build” approach - linking in-process monitoring data with the long-term performance of critical engineering components.

You will join a collaborative research environment within the Mechanics of Materials group, working alongside Dr Paul Hooper, Dr Catrin Davies, fellow researchers, PhD students, and industrial partners.

What you would be doing:

• You will develop and validate tools for qualifying AM parts using laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) technology.
• You will operate LPBF machines and utilise custom in-situ monitoring systems.
• You will perform comprehensive material and mechanical characterisation using techniques such as X-ray micro-CT, fracture and fatigue testing, and metallographic analysis.
• You will contribute to data analysis, interpretation, and dissemination of research findings.
• You will prepare high-quality journal publications and deliver presentations at academic and industry conferences.

What we are looking for:

• You must hold a first degree (Research Assistant) or PhD degree (Research Associate) in Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics or a related field—or equivalent research experience.

• Hands-on experience with laser powder bed fusion or comparable AM technologies is essential.
• You must have proficiency with experimental techniques such as:
  • X-ray micro-computed tomography (micro-CT)
  • Mechanical testing (particularly fracture and fatigue)
  • Metallographic sample preparation and analysis
• Familiarity with optical and camera systems (e.g., high-speed or infrared cameras, digital image correlation) is desirable.
• Strong programming and data analysis skills, ideally in MATLAB or Python is essential.
• You must demonstrate ability to write and publish high-impact academic papers.
• You must have effective communication skills and experience presenting research at meetings or conferences.

What we can offer you:

• The opportunity to continue your career at a world-leading institution
• Sector-leading salary and remuneration package (including 38 days off a year)

Further Information

This position is fixed term and is expected to run until 30^th April 2026.

If you require any further details on the role, please contact:

Dr Paul Hooper– paul.hooper@imperial.ac.uk.

Hybrid working may be considered for this role. Staff working in roles that are suitable for hybrid working will normally be expected to work 60% of their time onsite. The opportunity for hybrid working will be discussed at interview.

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