Job Reference Number: UOS031360
Job Title: RA in Cement Clinkering
Contract Type: Fixed-term until 31 May 2025
Working Pattern: Full time
Faculty: Faculty of Engineering
Department: Department of Materials Science and Engineering
Salary: Grade 7
£32,344 - £37,467 per annum
Closing Date: 9th February 2022
Summary:
You will work in a well-connected team with world-leading reputations in the Department of Materials Science and
Engineering. We are well known internationally for our research and are one of the largest research groups in Cements in the
UK. You will use your expertise in cement/clinker processing and characterisation to ensure the reputation of the University
in sustainable manufacturing.
The overarching aim of this research project is understanding the formation and solid solutions of calcium [alumino] ferrites
alone and in cement clinkers. The outcomes intend to enable industrial manufacturing of fast-reacting iron-rich Portland
cement (and other) clinker from Fe-rich side streams such as steel slags.
You will be experienced in thermochemistry, cement clinkering, inorganic materials characterisation, and writing of
scientific/technical publications and reports. You will contribute to the University’s commitment of producing high-quality
research and innovation that drives sustainability and functionality of human built environment.
Your role involves high-temperature synthesis of monophase and polyphase clinkers with different heating and cooling
regimes, followed by phase assemblage and microstructure characterisation to deliver the optimal clinker composition
required for the best hydration characteristics. Furthermore, you well develop thermodynamic descriptions of calcium
ferrites and ferritic clinkers, also incorporating minor elements. Furthermore, you will produce material that will be used by
colleagues to deconvolute local-/nano-structure as well as to build a database of electromagnetic properties of calcium
ferrites.
You may be expected to travel to carry out some experiments and modelling nationally as well as internationally. The project
involves industrial partners, and you must be willing to engage with them. You will contribute to organise group meetings and
conduct public engagement activities. It is also anticipated that you will assist in supporting the management of the research
group, for example, by co-supervision of research students.
The Department of Materials Science & Engineering (MSE) of the University of Sheffield is a globally leading research centre
in the innovation and development of materials to resolve global challenges. This position is part of the FeRICH project.
Candidates should hold or be close to completion of a PhD (or have equivalent experience) in materials science, chemistry,
chemical engineering, or another relevant discipline, with a good first degree (or equivalent experience).
The position is offered as a fixed term appointment, with an end date of 31 October 2025, and with a target start date of 1st of
May 2022 (or as soon as possible thereafter). It is planned that interviews and other selection action will be held in February
2022 in Sheffield or remotely. Full details will be provided to invited candidates.
We are one of the best not-for-profit organisations to work for in the UK. The University’s Total Reward Package includes a
competitive salary, a generous Pension Scheme and annual leave entitlement, as well as access to a range of learning and
development courses to support your personal and professional development.
We build teams of people from different heritages and lifestyles from across the world, whose talent and contributions
complement each other to greatest effect. We believe diversity in all its forms delivers greater impact through research,
teaching and student experience.