University of Cambridge 
Cambridge, United Kingdom Offer Summary
The University of Cambridge invites applications for a PhD Studentship focused on thermodynamic modelling of minority phases in Electric Arc Furnace (EAF) steels. Funded by Tata Steel and the University, this three-and-a-half-year position begins on 1 October 2027. Candidates will utilize thermodynamic modelling and machine learning to predict phase formation in EAF steels with elevated residual elements, validating results through advanced experimental characterisation techniques such as scanning transmission electron microscopy and synchrotron X-ray diffraction. The role is based within the Department of Materials Science and Metallurgy under the supervision of Professors Howard Stone and David Collins. Applicants require a good UK Master’s degree or equivalent in a relevant science subject. The stipend is £22,437 per annum, covering fees for eligible candidates. Applications close on 1 December 2026.
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Project Description
Funder: Tata Steel and the University of Cambridge
Duration: 3.5 years from 1 October 2027
Supervisors: Prof Howard Stone and Prof David Collins
Location: The PhD studentship will be based at the University of Cambridge in the Department of Materials Science and Metallurgy as part of the Structural Materials Group. The Structural Materials Group is a diverse and dynamic research team working across aerospace, automotive, energy, defence, and biomedical sectors. The group's expertise includes alloy design, microstructure-property relationships, phase transformations, and advanced materials processing.
Closing date for applications: 1 Dec 2026 with interviews shortly afterwards. Stipend: Full funding for 3.5 years covering a personal maintenance stipend starting at £22,437 (current rate) per annum
Fees: These positions are open to UK citizens or overseas students who meet the UK residency requirements (home fees) or are able to augment the funds to cover the extra costs associated with international student fees. Exceptional overseas candidates may be eligible for an International Doctoral Scholar award.
Thermodynamic modelling of minority phases in EAF steels
The transition to EAF steelmaking creates challenges for the reliable production of thin rolled steel products where residual element accumulation may compromise processability and properties. This PhD will utilise thermodynamic modelling to obtain predictions of equilibrium and, where possible, non-equilibrium phases for a matrix of compositions covering flat rolled products including elevated levels of Cu, Mo, Ni & Sn. These will be incorporated into machine learning models to predict face formation in EAF steels with elevated residual contents. Direct comparisons will be made with experimentally identified phases from high throughput samples. Subsequent characterisation will be performed using a combination of scanning transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction and, where necessary, synchrotron X-ray diffraction, nano-secondary ion mass spectroscopy, and 3D atom probe tomography. The data acquired will be used to modify thermodynamic database parameters to improve the predictions.
Applicants should have (or expect to be awarded) a good UK Master's degree (or overseas equivalent) in a relevant science subject (Materials Science, Chemistry, Physics, Engineering) and should be self-motivated, able to take ownership of their research, and effectively communicate their research findings. Training in all the computational and experimental methods will be provided in the projects, although relevant previous experience would be advantageous.
Applications for the PhD projects should be submitted via the University Application Portal: Apply. Early applications are encouraged as the positions may be filled once suitable candidates are identified.
For further details on postgraduate study at Cambridge, visit the University website. Informal enquiries can be sent to structuralmaterials@msm.cam.ac.uk.
Please quote reference LJ51572 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.
The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.
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