The University of Cambridge in the UK invites applications for the Fully-Funded (Home/EU Rate) PhD Studentship (Fixed Term) – Metallic Glasses Based on Precious Metals open to PhD studentship.
Applications are invited for a PhD studentship within the Microstructural Kinetics Group in the Department of Materials Science and Metallurgy. The project focuses on the development and characterization of metallic glasses based on precious metals, particularly gold. Precious metals, in their usual polycrystalline form, have desirable properties for application in jewellery and electronics, but they are soft and lack scratch resistance. Metallic glasses have exceptionally high hardness and scratch resistance [1], and furthermore are susceptible to thermoplastic forming, rather like polymers [2,3]. It is now well established that precious metals can be the basis for glass-forming compositions [4], and that bulk glass formation (minimum dimension mm to cm) is possible. However, much remains to be done to explore the properties and potential applications of precious-metal glasses.
This project will be primarily experimental, but can involve atomistic modelling. It will focus on: the search for better glass-forming alloys; characterization of the structure and stability of the glasses, including the possibilities to obtain crystallized products that have good mechanical properties, and possibly decorative patterns; optimization of the mechanical properties; studies of chemical stability including tarnish-resistance.
Worth of Award
The studentship is fully funded, covering fees and a tax-free stipend of at least £18500 per annum.
Eligibility
Applicants should have (or expect to be awarded) an upper second or first-class UK honours degree at the level of MSci, MEng (or overseas equivalents) in a relevant subject (Materials Science, Physics, Chemistry) and should be liable for ‘home rate’ fees to be eligible for a studentship.
How to Apply
- Applications can be made on-line.
- Further information on the application process is available from Dr Rosie Ward ([email protected]).
- Informal inquiries may be made to Professor AL Greer by e-mail to [email protected]
- Please quote reference LJ17077 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.
The University values diversity and is committed to equality of opportunity.
Deadline: applications Close Monday, 31 December 2018.