PhD Studentship: ABA Cladding, A New Laser Cladding Strategy

This exciting opportunity is based within the Advanced Materials Research Group in the Faculty of Engineering.

Vision

We are seeking a motivated PhD student to explore the new ABA cladding strategy recently developed at The University of Nottingham.

Motivation

Laser cladding is widely used to deposit coatings to extend component lifetime by providing enhanced wear and/or corrosion resistance. The ABA cladding process has been recently developed at The University of Nottingham. Our initial work has shown improved powder catchment efficiency compared to standard powder cladding. We have also demonstrated that surface topography can be controlled. There is a lot more work to do to establish the full potential of this new approach to laser cladding.

Aim

You will use our powder and wire cladding facilities to develop new cladding geometries, explore different material combinations and optimise process efficiency. Investigating the potential of ABA cladding as an additive manufacturing process is also within the scope of the project. State of the art materials characterisation and materials testing will determine performance of the clads produced.

Working on this new process is expected to produce an above average number of publications. You will have the opportunity to present your work at an international conference.

In addition to acquiring expertise in the specific area of laser cladding you will become skilled in materials characterisation, regularly using optical and scanning electron microscopy. Your verbal and written communication skills will develop as you learn how to disseminate your work to a variety of audiences.

Who we are looking for

An enthusiastic, self-motivated, resourceful person who has the imagination and creativity to develop novel applications of ABA cladding.

Suitable applicants will have a 1st or a 2:1 or MSc in a relevant field such as, but not limited to, Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering or Physics.  Prior practical experience of material characterisation would be an advantage, but is not a requirement.

Open to UK/EU/Overseas students. We welcome applications from those who hold scholarship offers to study for a PhD in the 24/25 academic year. If you are seeking funding you can look for funding sources at:

https://www.nottingham.ac.uk/pgstudy/funding/postgraduate-funding.aspx

Funding support

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

The Faculty of Engineering provides a thriving working environment for all PGRs creating a strong sense of community across research disciplines. Community and research culture is important to our PGRs and the FoE support this by working closely with our Postgraduate Research Society (PGES) and our PGR Research Group Reps to enhance the research environment for PGRs. PGRs benefit from training through the Researcher Academy’s Training Programme, those based within the Faculty of Engineering have access to bespoke courses developed for Engineering PGRs. including sessions on paper writing, networking and career development after the PhD. The Faculty has outstanding facilities and works in partnership with leading industrial partners.

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