Research Fellow (Data Analytics for Smart Steel Processing) - (107070-0223)

Fixed Term Contract Until 31/03/2025, 36.5 hours per week.

A talented individual with skills in data analytics/machine learning, ideally in the context of metals processing and/or on-line sensing, is invited to join a research team focussing on steel alloy/process and on-line sensor developments in the Advanced Steel Research Centre in WMG, University of Warwick, working on industrially relevant research projects to improve steel processes and products.

Steel manufacturing is a complex process, with variations in steel chemistry and processing parameters affecting final properties. Large amounts of process data are collected, and process models are available, but the datasets contain predictability gaps. The challenges include industrial process optimisation, meaning that the datasets are focussed on a narrow range with sparse data outside the standard operating parameters, and gaps in key data input, such as direct measurement of steel microstructure development through process. The development of digital (finite element based), and physical (rapid alloy processing experimental facilities), twins for the industrial processing route allows data to be generated in the sparse data fields. The development and use of electromagnetic (EM) sensors produces data for microstructural development during transformation after hot rolling. These advances mean that ‘fast’ models using data analytics/machine learning approaches or better mathematical models can be developed for industrial processes allowing improved optimisation for new grades, non-standard processing and recovery of properties from upstream variability.

WMG are working on digital and physical twins for commercial hot rolling processing routes with steel industry partners and installing novel EM sensors for transformation monitoring during cooling after hot rolling. There is expertise on process models and sensor signals within the team. The challenge is the exploitation of the data generated to support the fast models required by the industry and integration of the sensors into the systems. Therefore, we are looking for someone with data analytics expertise, who is interested in developing their skills in steel processing and sensor data.

We will provide a great range of benefits which include an attractive pension scheme, 30 days holiday plus bank holidays and Christmas closure, some fantastic savings on a wide range of products and services, and excellent learning and development opportunities.

At WMG we are committed to supporting staff to achieve their potential. We currently hold the Athena SWAN Silver Award and the University of Warwick holds an Institutional Silver Award: a national initiative that recognises the advancement of gender equality, representation, progression and success for all in academia. We are supportive of staff with caring responsibilities including a generous maternity/paternity/adoption/parental leave policy, and onsite childcare facilities. We will consider applications for employment on a part-time or other flexible working basis, even where a position is advertised as full-time, unless there are operational or other objective reasons why it is not possible to do so.

If you have not yet been awarded your PhD but are near submission or have recently submitted your PhD, any offers of employment will be made as Research Assistant on level 5 of the University grade structure (£31,411). Upon successful award of your PhD and evidence of this fact, you will be promoted to Research Fellow on the first point of the level 6 of the University grade structure (£32,348).

Interview Date: TBC

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