University of Sussex
1 month ago
Fully Funded PhD Studentship: Microstructure and Defect Control in Recycled Aluminium Alloys University of Sussex in United Kingdom
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Mechanical Engineering
Funding
Available
Deadline
Oct 2, 2026
Country
United Kingdom
University
University of Sussex
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About this position
Fully funded PhD studentship at the University of Sussex in the School of Engineering and Informatics on Microstructure and Defect Control in Recycled Aluminium Alloys.
This project addresses a key challenge in the transition to a circular economy: how to increase the use of recycled aluminium while maintaining castability and performance. The research focuses on the interplay between grain refinement, iron (Fe) impurities, and defect susceptibility in recycled aluminium alloys. Fe-rich intermetallic compounds can degrade material quality and reduce casting reliability, making this a highly relevant project for sustainable manufacturing.
The PhD will investigate how microstructure develops under different alloy compositions and processing conditions, and how these factors influence defect formation during casting and solidification. The work combines controlled laboratory-scale experiments with pilot-scale casting trials, linking fundamental materials science with industrial relevance. The project includes collaboration with the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) and a leading aluminium producer, offering an international and industry-connected research environment.
The successful candidate will join a growing research environment in sustainable materials engineering at Sussex. Training will cover alloy processing, microstructural characterisation, solidification science, and advanced imaging techniques. A research secondment may be possible through the NTNU collaboration.
Eligibility is open to UK and overseas applicants. The normal entry requirement is an upper second-class (2:1) undergraduate honours degree, or equivalent, in a related field. Funding is listed at £21,805 per year.
Application deadline: 2 October 2026.
Funding details
Available
What's required
Available to UK and Overseas applicants. Candidates will normally have an upper second-class (2:1) undergraduate honours degree or equivalent qualification in a related field.
How to apply
Apply via the University of Sussex funding page using the application link provided. Review the studentship details and submit your PhD application by 2 October. Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria before applying.
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