Study of alloying additions on the extrusion of high-performance automotive aluminium alloys using advanced physical thermomechanical simulation

Applications are invited for a full-time EPSRC Industrial CASE (ICASE) PhD studentship for the project “Study of alloying additions on the extrusion of high-performance automotive aluminium alloys using advanced physical thermomechanical simulation”, at Brunel University London, starting in October 2025.

BCAST is a speciality research centre in metallurgy with a focus on processing of metallic materials for lightweighting applications. See www.brunel.ac.uk/bcast for more information. The project is sponsored by Constellium, a global leading manufacturer of high-quality technically advanced aluminium products and systems. Successful applicants will receive an annual stipend (bursary) starting from approximately £23,000 plus payment of their full-time home tuition fees for a period of up to 48 months (4 years)

About the Project:

As the automotive industry accelerates towards electrification, lightweighting is crucial to improving fuel efficiency and reducing emissions. Aluminium alloys are at the forefront of this evolution, especially for structural components in Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs), where crash safety and high strength are vital. Constellium’s 6XXX series aluminium alloys are essential in achieving these goals. However, the challenge lies in optimizing their performance for enhanced crashworthiness and strength.

This PhD project will focus on the study of alloying additions and their effects on the extrusion process of high-performance automotive aluminium alloys, using advanced physical thermomechanical simulation techniques. Specifically, you will use the state-of-the-art Gleeble 3800-GTC Thermal-Mechanical Physical Simulation system to simulate extrusion processing and optimize the microstructure and texture of aluminium alloys. These insights will help improve crash safety and strength, contributing to the development of next-generation materials for automotive applications.

You will have the opportunity to interact with and receive advice from Constellium’s industrial research engineers in addition in addition to receiving expert training from BCAST researchers in the use of the high-end characterisation facilities at BCAST.

For informal inquiries, please contact Dr Ebad Bagherpour at [Email Address Removed]

Key Benefits:

·        Hands-on experience with Gleeble 3800-GTC, a world-class thermomechanical simulator, to push the boundaries of alloy performance.

·        Collaboration with Constellium, a global leader in high-performance aluminium products, providing real-world industrial insights.

·        Training in advanced electron microscopy and materials characterization techniques.

·        Annual stipend starting at approximately £23,000, with full home tuition coverage for up to 48 months.

Candidate Profile:

We are looking for candidates with a strong interest in materials science and engineering, particularly in metal processing and characterization. Prior experience with physical thermomechanical simulation and electron microscopy is advantageous but not required.

Successful candidates will be highly motivated, capable of working both independently and collaboratively, and eager to contribute to this forward-thinking project shaping the future of automotive safety.

To be eligible to apply for this studentship, applicants should be “UK Residents” as defined by the EPSRC. Please check your suitability here

How to Apply:

Please submit your application documents (see list below) in one PDF file by noon on 10 January 2025 to [Email Address Removed]

Application Requirements:

·        Your up-to-date CV;

·        A personal statement (300-500 words) summarizing your background, skills, and interest in this project;

·        Undergraduate/Postgraduate degree certificates and transcripts;

·        Evidence of English proficiency (IELTS 6.5 or equivalent, with no section below 6.0), if applicable;

·        Contact details of two referees, one being an academic staff member from your current or previous institution.

Interviews will take place in January 2025.

Remember to state the title of the project at the top of your personal statement.