The influence of Si in alpha+beta titanium alloys

This PhD studentship is funded by EPSRC and Rolls-Royce to examine the role that Si additions have on the microstructural development and mechanical performance of solute lean alpha + beta titanium alloys. The research project aims to develop a mechanistic understanding of how compositional changes influence alloy performance and guide the industrial development of new, high performance titanium alloys for next generation engine designs. The studentship is based at the University of Cambridge in the Department of Materials Science and Metallurgy as part of the Structural Materials Group. The research will be predominately practical and will include the production of systematic series of model alloys through arc melting, hot rolling and heat treatments. Microstructural characterisation will be performed through electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction, supported by differential scanning calorimetry. Quasi-static mechanical performance will be assessed through small scale tensile testing, including advanced in situ testing in Cambridge and at national synchrotron facilities. Complimentary high strain rate testing will be conducted with industrial partners. The project addresses questions about the influence of individual alloying elements on elemental phase partitioning and deformation micromechanics of titanium alloys, particularly at high strain rate regimes. The award covers fees for home and international students, plus a maintenance stipend of £26,280 per year for 3.5 years starting October 2026. It is supervised by Prof NG Jones and Dr NL Church within the Structural Materials Group, which works across aerospace, automotive, energy, defence, and biomedical sectors.