Research Fellow or Research Assistant in Composites for Space Structures

You will focus on the development and delivery of composites manufacturing technologies for the space industry. The primary aim is to expand and optimise the design and characteristics of space-based carbon fibre optical reflective mirrors, whilst also addressing the development of additive processing of continuous fibre composites. The role involves collaboration with the industry, participating in joint developments and translating the results of the research to manufacturing and simulation technologies addressing the needs of end users. You will work closely with external partners, as well as colleagues within the Composites and Advanced Materials Centre, the Surface Engineering and Precision Centre and the Space Research Group at Cranfield, and you will directly report the research results to project partners and prepare and deliver dissemination outputs in the form of journal publications and presentations at international conferences.

You will have knowledge and experience in the areas of composites and finite element analysis. Experience in composites manufacturing and process simulation as well as exposure to testing of composite components and application of structures to space would be advantageous but not essential. Ability to communicate effectively at a technical level, and the capability to clearly summarise achievements to brief colleagues and project partners is also essential. As Research Assistant, you must hold a Master's degree or equivalent qualification in Materials Science/Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or similar field. As Research Fellow, you must hold or be close to completion of a PhD or have equivalent experience in Materials, Manufacturing, Composites or similar field. A developing track record of publishing in high quality journals is also expected as a Research Fellow.

As a specialist postgraduate university, Cranfield's world-class expertise, large-scale facilities and unrivalled industry partnerships are creating leaders in technology and management globally. Learn more about Cranfield and our unique impact here.

Cranfield Manufacturing and Materials has been following the ambitious strategy of developing a roadmap for Sustainable Manufacturing and Materials Sectors for 2050 by applying fundamental science and thought leadership via conceiving and maturing the concepts of Smart, Clean and Green manufacturing solutions agnostically across all sectors and through all tiers of the supply chain and with SMEs as well as OEMs. This is to support the national aspiration of Net Zero UK by 2050 We offer world-class and niche post-graduate level research, education, training and consultancy. We are unique in our multi-disciplinary approach by bringing together design, materials' technology and management expertise. We link fundamental materials research with manufacturing to develop novel technologies and improve the science base of the manufacturing research. Our capabilities are unique, with a focus on simulation and modelling, and sustainability. They also include work in composite
manufacture, metallic glasses, nano-materials (graphene, carbon nanotubes, coatings and sensors), low energy casting, thermal barrier coatings and Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM).

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