The Brunel Centre for Advanced Solidification Technology (BCAST) invites applications for a 4-year PhD studentship exploring the deformation and crush behaviour of recycled 6xxx aluminium alloys. With full funding and industry sponsorship from Constellium, this project addresses sustainability challenges in next-generation lightweight alloys for crash-resistant applications.
🔍 Job Details
| Title | PhD Studentship – Understanding Crush Behaviour of Recycled 6xxx Aluminium Alloys |
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| Organization/Publisher | Brunel University London – BCAST (Brunel Centre for Advanced Solidification Technology) |
| Work Location | Brunel University London, UK |
| Research Field | Metallurgy, Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, Aluminium Alloys |
| Funding Info | EPSRC Industrial CASE (ICASE) studentship + Constellium sponsorship |
| Application Deadline | 5 September 2025 |
| Start Date | October 2025 (approx.) |
| Contract Type | Full-time PhD, 48 months |
| Researcher Profile | PhD Student |
| Salary/Stipend | £23,000 per year + full tuition fees (Home students) |
| Required Qualification | 2:1 or above in Metallurgy, Materials Science, Mechanical/Chemical Engineering, or Physics |
| Required Experience | Strong background in materials science and/or modelling; experience in machine learning or computer vision desirable |
| Eligibility | Home students (UK nationality or residency requirement) |
| Apply Button | Apply via Email – [email protected] |
About the Project
The Brunel Centre for Advanced Solidification Technology (BCAST) is leading cutting-edge research in metallic materials processing for lightweighting applications. In partnership with Constellium, a global leader in aluminium products, this project focuses on developing high-recycle-content aluminium alloys for sustainable and crash-resistant applications.
The increasing push for net-zero targets and reduced production costs demands the use of recycled alloys with enhanced mechanical performance. This PhD will explore new thermomechanical treatments—including heat treatment, deformation, and ageing—to optimise alloy strength, crash resistance, and energy absorption.
What You’ll Do
As a PhD researcher, you will:
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Investigate the deformation and crush behaviour of recycled 6xxx aluminium alloys.
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Study the influence of impurity tramp elements on final property profiles.
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Apply thermomechanical processing methods to enhance strength and crash resistance.
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Collaborate with Constellium’s University Technology Centre (UTC) and industrial engineers.
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Develop innovative pathways for next-generation high-recycle-content alloys.
Who Succeeds Here
Ideal candidates will have:
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A first degree (2:1 or above) in metallurgy, materials science, mechanical/chemical engineering, or physics.
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Strong knowledge of materials science and modelling.
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Desirable skills in machine learning, computer programming, and computer vision.
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Ability to work independently and collaboratively with industry and academic partners.
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Excellent communication and problem-solving skills.
Benefits & Environment
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Fully funded PhD with £23,000 annual stipend + tuition fees covered.
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Work at BCAST, one of the UK’s top metallurgy research centres.
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Direct collaboration with Constellium engineers through the UTC.
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A strong career pathway in sustainable materials, lightweight alloys, and advanced manufacturing.
Application Instructions
To apply, submit the following documents as a single PDF to [email protected] by 5 September 2025:
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Up-to-date CV
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Personal statement (300–500 words)
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Degree certificates and transcripts
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Proof of English proficiency (IELTS 6.5 or equivalent, if applicable)
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Contact details for two referees (one academic)
👉 Remember to include the project title in your personal statement.
Ready to shape the future of sustainable aluminium alloys?
Apply now for this EPSRC ICASE PhD Studentship at Brunel University London before 5 September 2025.
Apply via Email – [email protected]
🔗 Reference Links
⚠️ Disclaimer
This PhD studentship is open to Home students only. International applicants are not eligible due to funding restrictions. Information is provided based on the official announcement and may be subject to change.
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