PhD Student at ILL on Advanced Neutron Imaging for Defect Mapping in Repaired Aero-Engine Components European Synchrotron Radiation Facility in France

The European Synchrotron Radiation Facility (ESRF) in Grenoble, France, offers a unique PhD opportunity focused on advanced neutron imaging for defect mapping in repaired aero-engine components. This position is based at the Institut Laue-Langevin (ILL), a world-leading neutron science facility, and involves close collaboration with The University of Manchester (UK). The successful candidate will join the Applied Science Group at ILL and be enrolled in the doctoral school at The University of Manchester, with at least two months of secondment at the Henry Moseley X-ray Imaging Facility in Manchester.

The research project centers on developing and applying neutron imaging methodologies to establish quantitative links between processing conditions, microstructural evolution, residual deformation, and defect formation in laser-blown-powder (LBP) repaired titanium and nickel-based alloys. The ultimate goal is to generate physics-based insights that support the optimization and improvement of LBP repair processes for high-value aero-engine components, such as blisks, which operate under extreme thermo-mechanical conditions. The project will utilize neutron imaging instruments (NeXT, MoTo, and PorTo) at ILL and complementary X-ray imaging facilities at The University of Manchester.

Applicants should have a strong background in materials science, applied physics, engineering, or a closely related field, with a keen interest in experimental imaging techniques. Knowledge of neutron and/or X-ray imaging and diffraction, as well as programming skills, is advantageous. Hands-on skills and attention to detail are essential. Proficiency in English at B2 level must be demonstrated, either by proof or by an official degree conducted in English; applicants from native-English-speaking countries are exempt. If proof is not provided, a free English test will be requested. Candidates must comply with the Marie Sklodowska-Curie Actions mobility rule, not having resided or carried out their main activity in France for more than twelve months in the three years before the application deadline. Candidates must not already be working towards or in possession of a doctoral degree at the date of recruitment and must already hold a master’s degree at the call deadline. Eligibility for enrolment in a doctoral programme is required.

The PhD position is full-time and temporary, with a varied pedagogical training programme offered throughout the 3-year project. The research is part of the NEXTSTEP initiative, which aims to train young researchers to exploit analytical research infrastructures for sustainable development and industrial competitiveness in areas such as health, digital industry, climate, energy, mobility, and natural resources. Host laboratories include ESRF and ILL (France), FZJ (Germany), AREA (Italy), and NTNU (Norway).

For further information, prospective candidates may contact Dr. Bratislav Lukic ([email protected]), Dr. Matthew Roy ([email protected]), Professor John Francis ([email protected]), or Professor Philip Withers ([email protected]). Applications should be submitted online via the provided links, ensuring all eligibility requirements are met and relevant documentation is included.