PhD in SEGregation of residual eleMENTs at austenite grain boundaries in recycled steels (SEGMENT)

Number of Opportunities Available

1 fully funded place

Department

Centre for Doctoral Training in the Modelling of Heterogeneous Materials (HetSys), School of Engineering 

About the project:

SEGregation of residual eleMENTs at austenite grain boundaries in recycled steels (SEGMENT)

Supervisor: Dr Michael Auinger, University of Warwick

Steel recycling is a key strategy to reduce the carbon emissions related to steel production. However, producing advanced steel grades from scrap leads to a higher level of impurities which may be detrimental to the steel properties.

Elements such as copper and tin, which are the focus of this project, enrich at grain boundaries during thermo-mechanical processes used to achieve the desired steel microstructure.

In this project, you will establish a digital route to quantify the segregation behaviour of residual elements at austenite/austenite grain boundaries through atomic-scale simulations, using modern machine learning techniques and in close interaction with experimental work.

About HetSys: Harnessing Data, Modelling and Simulation for Real‑World Impact

HetSys (Centre for Doctoral Training in Modelling of Heterogeneous Systems) at the University of Warwick is an innovative, interdisciplinary fully funded PhD programme that brings together science, engineering, and mathematics to tackle some of the most pressing challenges of our time.

• Big Questions, Real Impact – From climate modelling and sustainable energy to advanced materials and biomedical systems, HetSys projects apply cutting‑edge computational and mathematical techniques to problems with global significance.
• Interdisciplinary Training – Students gain expertise across physics, engineering, computer science, and applied mathematics, developing versatile skills that open doors to both academia and industry.
• Collaborative Environment – Work alongside leading researchers and industry partners in a supportive, vibrant community that values curiosity, creativity, and collaboration.
• Future‑Focused Careers – HetSys graduates are equipped with highly sought‑after skills in modelling, simulation, and data science, preparing them for impactful careers in research, technology, and beyond.

If you’re excited by the idea of using advanced modelling and simulation to solve complex, real‑world problems, HetSys offers the perfect environment to push boundaries and make a difference.

Additional Funding

Awards for UK, EU, International applicants cover full University fees, give a research training budget and a tax-free stipend to cover living costs (standard UKRI rate £20780 in 25/26 - equivalent to national living wage)

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