Research Assistant/Research Fellow - 16914

Brunel Centre for Advanced Solidification Technology (BCAST)

Location: Brunel University London, Uxbridge Campus

Salary: Grade R1

Research Assistant: from £36,640 to £38,638 inclusive of London Weighting with potential to progress to £39,682 per annum inclusive of London Weighting through sustained exceptional contribution.

Research Fellow: from £40,757 to £45,390 inclusive of London Weighting with potential to progress to £52,067 per annum inclusive of London Weighting through sustained exceptional contribution.

Hours: Full-time

Contract Type: 18 months             

Brunel University London was established in 1966 and is a leading multidisciplinary research-intensive technology university delivering economic, social and cultural benefits. 

For more information please visit: https://www.brunel.ac.uk/about/our-history/home

Description of Position

BCAST is a world-leading speciality research centre focusing on solidification related research. BCAST prides itself on its innovation and creativity. Our activities cover fundamental research, technological development and industrial applications in the field of solidification and solidification processing. 

The position is for the Supercast project funded under  through ATI-SME scheme and looks at the adaptation of continuous fibre reinforced Al alloys. The project requires working closely with TISICS, a world leading supplier of fibre-reinforced metal matrix composition (MMC) technology.

Aim of this project is to develop a robust understanding of factors that control successful production of continuous fibre reinforced Al MMCS that leads to the production of larger castings of Fibre-reinforced MMCs both as flat plates and simple profiles. This is to be achieved via

1. Developing a detailed understanding of alloying additions, fibre surface structure, processing conditions that contribute to a good interface between the alumina fibres and the aluminium melt to determine optimum conditions for producing Al-MMCs with full infiltration of alumina fibres.
2. Successfully cast Al-MMCs with full infiltration of alumina fibres in large coupons that allow mechanical characterisations
3. Mechanical testing to determine the property profiles to show case performance of the Al-MMCs
4. Cast solid parts that are flat plates, simple profiles or simple components of Al-MMCS with continuous fibres

The successful candidate should have a PhD degree or equivalent in materials science and engineering, physics, chemistry or another related scientific or engineering discipline, or very close to the completion of a PhD; and should have a strong background in experimental research. Prior expertise in alloy development and advanced materials characterisation is an advantage. In addition, good communication skills and proficiency in written and spoken English are required.

We offer a generous annual leave package plus discretionary University closure days, excellent training and development opportunities as well as a great occupational pension scheme and a range of health-related support. The University is committed to a hybrid working approach

For informal enquiries please contact Dr Chamini Mendis in BCAST (Chamini.mendis@brunel.ac.uk)

Closing date for applications: 24 July 2026

Interviews will take place on: 10^th of August

For further details about the post including the Job Description and Person Specification and to apply please visit https://careers.brunel.ac.uk

If you have any technical issues, please contact us at: hrsystems@brunel.ac.uk 

Brunel University London has a strong commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion. Our aim is to promote and achieve a fully inclusive workforce to reflect our community.