University of Sussex
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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
This fully funded PhD studentship at the University of Sussex focuses on microstructure and defect control in recycled aluminium alloys, a topic at the intersection of sustainable manufacturing, casting science, and advanced materials engineering.
The project addresses a major challenge for the circular economy: how to increase the use of recycled aluminium without sacrificing processability or performance. In particular, the research examines how iron (Fe) impurities, grain refinement, composition, and processing conditions influence microstructural evolution and the formation of casting and solidification defects. The work is designed to improve understanding of impurity-related intermetallic phases and defect susceptibility in secondary aluminium alloys.
Research will combine controlled laboratory experiments with pilot-scale casting trials, bridging fundamental science and industrial relevance. The successful candidate will develop skills in alloy processing, microstructural characterisation, solidification science, and advanced imaging techniques. The project is based in the School of Engineering and Informatics at Sussex, within a growing sustainable materials engineering environment.
The studentship includes collaboration with the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) and a leading aluminium producer, offering opportunities for international collaboration and potential research secondment. The lead supervisor is Dr Shikang Feng.
Funding is listed at £21,805 per year. The studentship is open to UK and Overseas applicants, and candidates will normally need a 2:1 undergraduate honours degree or equivalent in a related subject.
Applications should be submitted through the University of Sussex funding page before the deadline of 2 October 2026.
Funding details
Available
What's required
This studentship is open to UK and Overseas applicants. Applicants 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 provided application link. Prepare your application materials and submit before the deadline. Check the full advert for any additional documents or instructions.
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