Engineering Technologist (Materials) 828649

The AFRC is seeking to appoint an experienced Engineering Technologist to support the delivery of high value research programmes focused on materials, processing of materials related to solid state joining & additive technologies, and manufacturing. Recently the Centre has invested significantly in novel forging, solid state joining, advanced materials characterisations and mechanical testing equipment suitable for large scale investigations and continues to develop a multi-disciplinary group that specialises in this area of additive and welding technologies. The Centre is also participating in key NMIS initiatives and programmes like the Digital Factory, with significant contributions to the Additive, Machining and Digital activities.

To further capitalise on this research activity and materialise AFRC’s vision and agenda around processing of materials and Industry 4.0, an Engineering Technologist is required support the delivery of scientific research programmes and lead projects on processing of existing and new alloys, microstructure control and materials/microstructure modelling. Though the primary focus will be on aerospace materials, there is also a significant interest and body of work on materials for the Automotive, Oil & Gas, Energy and Defence sectors. The candidate will also be expected to support and contribute to high value industrial funding proposals in support of a range of projects across the Centre. The post holder will be expected to work between the AFRC and its industrial and academic partners and there will be a strong emphasis on knowledge exchange.

To achieve the above the Engineering Technologist will preferably require some research and/or industrial experience in the following technical areas:

• A broad knowledge of metallic materials and alloys, especially Nickel based superalloys, but also those relevant to the aerospace sector (Titanium alloys and Aluminium alloys)

• A broad knowledge of forging and microstructural evolution during forging.

• A good basic knowledge of materials and the way that manufacturing processes can develop or modify material’s microstructure and their impact on mechanical properties.

• Hands-on experience with techniques of materials characterization and analysis of data, e.g. SEM, EBSD, optical microscopy

• Hands-on experience on mechanical testing for a range of conditions, i.e. low to high strain rate, room to high temperature, bulk vs sheet material and development of material models

• The use of finite element-based software (e.g. ABAQUS, DEFORM) for process simulation and materials modelling

Thus, you will have an established track record in providing engineering solutions in an industrial context as well as experience of supporting research and development of manufacturing processes. You will have excellent troubleshooting skills, including a methodical approach to solve complex problems and you will have the ability to work as part of a multi-disciplinary team.

As an Engineering Technologist, as part of a wider knowledge exchange / research group or programme you will develop knowledge exchange objectives and proposals for own or joint knowledge exchange activities and play a lead role in relation to a specific project/s or part of a broader project, with guidance from senior colleagues as required. You will conduct individual and/or collaborative knowledge exchange activities, including determining appropriate methods and contributing to the development of new knowledge exchange methods, continually reflecting on practice/methodology to enhance delivery to partners. Lastly, the post holder may be required to make a contribution to the administrative activities of the AFRC including participating in relevant committees.

To be considered for the role, you will have a good honours degree and PhD / higher degree (or equivalent professional experience) in appropriate discipline.