A prestigious EPSRC Industrial CASE PhD studentship is open at Brunel University London’s BCAST Centre, sponsored by Constellium. The project aims to design next-generation aluminium alloys resistant to natural ageing, improving recyclability and performance in automotive lightweighting. The studentship includes a generous annual stipend (~£23,000) plus tuition coverage for 4 years.
🔍 Job Details
| Title | PhD Studentship in Development of Natural-Ageing-Resistant, Heat-Treatable Lean Aluminium Alloys for Automotive Applications |
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| Organization/Publisher | Brunel University London – Brunel Centre for Advanced Solidification Technology (BCAST) |
| Industry Partner | Constellium (Global Aluminium Manufacturer) |
| Work Location | Brunel University London, United Kingdom |
| Research Field | Materials Science, Metallurgy, Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Alloys |
| Researcher Profile | PhD Student (Early-Stage Researcher) |
| Contract Type | Full-time, 4 years (EPSRC ICASE funded) |
| Funding Info | £23,000 annual stipend + full tuition fees (Home students) |
| Application Deadline | 5 September 2025 |
| Start Date | Expected late 2025 (after interviews in September) |
| Eligibility | UK/Home students eligible; strong background in materials science/metallurgy |
| How to Apply | Submit CV, personal statement, transcripts, certificates, English proficiency (if required), and 2 referee contacts in one PDF to: [email protected] |
About the Project
This PhD studentship is part of the prestigious EPSRC Industrial CASE scheme, jointly hosted by Brunel Centre for Advanced Solidification Technology (BCAST) and Constellium, a world leader in aluminium solutions. The project will tackle one of the key challenges in automotive manufacturing: developing lightweight aluminium alloys that resist natural ageing, while ensuring recyclability and efficiency.
Aluminium alloys are central to automotive lightweighting, reducing vehicle emissions and enhancing performance. However, lean Al-Mg-Si alloys often suffer from natural ageing at room temperature, affecting their formability and mechanical properties. This research seeks to overcome these limitations by exploring vacancy-trapping elements, quench rate sensitivity, and recycled aluminium content.
What You’ll Do
As the selected PhD researcher, you will:
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Investigate the natural ageing response of lean Al-Mg-Si-based alloys.
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Study precipitation hardening during artificial ageing treatments.
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Assess alloy behaviour with varying recycled content for sustainable production.
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Develop processing strategies to balance mechanical strength, recyclability, and manufacturability.
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Collaborate closely with Constellium’s industrial R&D teams and academic supervisors.
Who Should Apply
This opportunity is ideal for motivated researchers who:
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Hold (or expect) a 1st or upper 2nd class degree in Materials Science, Metallurgy, Mechanical Engineering, or Physics.
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Have a strong background in physical metallurgy and materials science.
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Preferably possess hands-on experience with casting, heat treatment, microstructural characterisation, calorimetry, and mechanical testing.
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Meet UK “Home” student eligibility criteria (nationality/residency requirements).
Benefits & Environment
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Funding: Generous £23,000 stipend per year + tuition fee coverage (Home students).
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Training: Advanced experimental research in alloy development and metallurgy.
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Collaboration: Direct interaction with both Brunel’s research teams and Constellium’s engineers.
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Career Pathways: Opens doors to future opportunities in academia or industrial R&D.
Application Instructions
Submit the following as a single PDF to [email protected] by 5 September 2025:
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CV
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Personal statement (300–500 words)
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Degree certificates & transcripts
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English language evidence (if applicable, IELTS 6.5)
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Contact details of 2 referees (one academic)
📌 Interviews will take place in September 2025. Remember to state the project title at the top of your personal statement.
Apply via Email: [email protected]
Official website :
🔗 Reference Links
⚠️ Disclaimer
This summary is for informational purposes only. Applicants must refer to Brunel University London’s official portal for the most accurate and updated information regarding eligibility, funding, and the application process.
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