PhD Studentship: Investigating White-Etching Layers in High-Performance Aerospace Steels The University of Manchester in United Kingdom

[Annual tax-free stipend of £21,805 for 2026/27 (subject to annual uplift) and tuition fees paid.]

This 3.5-year PhD studentship at The University of Manchester focuses on investigating white-etching layers (WELs) in high-performance aerospace steels. WELs are nano-grained regions formed by severe plastic deformation during machining, and their presence can significantly impact fatigue life and mechanical properties of steel components used in aerospace applications. The project aims to address key knowledge gaps, including reliable identification and characterisation of WELs, understanding their mechanical properties, effects of post-machining processing such as heat treatments, and differences across various aerospace steel grades.

The research will be conducted in collaboration with Rolls-Royce plc and will leverage the advanced electron microscopy facilities at Manchester’s Electron Microscopy Centre and the Henry Royce Institute. The student will join the Metallurgy & Corrosion research community, benefiting from a vibrant academic environment and opportunities for professional development, including training courses, conference attendance, and industry meetings.

Funding includes a tax-free stipend of £21,805 for 2026/27 (subject to annual uplift) and full tuition fees. The position is open to Home (UK) applicants, with EU students (settled or pre-settled status) and international applicants considered on a case-by-case basis. Applicants should hold or expect to achieve at least a 2.1 honours degree or a master’s (or international equivalent) in a relevant science or engineering discipline.

The project is supervised by Dr Ed Pickering and Prof Tim Burnett. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply early via the University of Manchester application portal, as the advert may be removed before the official deadline of 30 June 2026. For further information, contact Dr Ed Pickering at [email protected].