Research Fellow (Magnetic Properties & Microstructure – FENDER Programme) (111341-0226)

About The Role

Informal Queries

For informal queries, please contact Professor Claire Davis at Claire.Davis@warwick.ac.uk

Flexible Working

We will consider applications for employment on a part-time or other flexible working basis (e.g. job share), despite the position being advertised as full-time.

WMG at the University of Warwick is recruiting a Research Fellow in Magnetic Properties and Microstructure to join the Frontiers in Electromagnetic Non-Destructive Evaluation Research (FENDER) Programme. The role will contribute primarily to Work Package 1 (Extreme Environments), focusing on fundamental experimental research into how steel microstructural features influence magnetic and electrical behaviour under a range of thermal, mechanical and processing conditions. This understanding will underpin the development of next-generation electromagnetic sensing concepts capable of operating reliably in high-temperature and industrially demanding environments. The postholder will generate high-quality experimental evidence linking microstructure, temperature and magnetic response, and will work closely with modelling and sensor teams to ensure that scientific insight translates directly into sensor innovation, digital-twin development, and industrial demonstrators. The role involves close collaboration with academic and industrial partners across the FENDER consortium, including the Universities of Manchester, Bristol and Strathclyde.

About You

You will have (or be close to completing) a PhD in metallurgy, materials science, or a closely related discipline, with a strong understanding of magnetic properties of materials and their relationship to microstructure. You will bring experience in experimental magnetic measurements and metallurgical characterisation, alongside good data-analysis skills (e.g. Python or MATLAB). You will be able to work independently while contributing effectively within a large, multi-institutional research programme. For details on the experience and skills required, please refer to the job description attached as a PDF below.

PhD Status

If you are near submission of your PhD, or have not yet had it conferred, any offers of employment will be made at Research Assistant level, at the highest spinal point of pay grade 5 (£34,610 per annum). Upon receipt of evidence confirming the successful award of your PhD, you will be promoted to Research Fellow, at the lowest spinal point of grade 6 (£35,608 per annum).

About The Department

WMG is one of the UK’s leading applied research departments, working at the interface of academia and industry. The Advanced Steel Research Centre (ASRC) brings together expertise in steel metallurgy, sensing technologies, manufacturing processes, and digitalisation to support the transition to sustainable, high-value steel manufacturing.

For further information on the Advanced Steel Research Centre please visit: WMG ASRC : https://warwick.ac.uk/fac/sci/wmg/research/research-areas/steels

The Warwick Manufacturing Group (WMG) is the largest department at the University of Warwick, with over 800 staff and nearly 3,000 students across undergraduate and postgraduate programmes in management, technology, and applied engineering. We are globally recognised for our world-class research, innovative industry partnerships, and teaching excellence, and we are proud holders of the Athena SWAN Silver Award and the Institutional Silver Award.

Find out more about the High Value Manufacturing Catapult centre.

Find out more about the Energy Innovation Centre.

Find out more about our range of undergraduate and apprenticeship degrees here.

About The University

We are a world-leading research-intensive university founded in 1965. We are ranked 106 th in the world and 8th in the UK. Additionally, 92% of our research is rated world-leading or internationally excellent. Find out more about us at warwick.ac.uk/about/. World University Ranking 2024, Guardian University Guide 2025 Research Excellence Framework 2021

How to Apply

CLOSING DEADLINE: Thursday 5th March 2026 at 11:55pm (UK Time)

To apply, please click "Apply" below and submit an application form by the closing deadline. You will be asked to include a CV and a cover letter.

Your CV Should Include

• Your education and employment history (including your most recent employment).
• Any other relevant experience (e.g. volunteering, extracurricular, etc.).

Your Cover Letter Should Explain

• Your motivations for applying to the role.
• Using examples, how you meet the essential and desirable criteria detailed in the job description (PDF attached below).

All essential criteria must be met by candidates who are invited to interview.

Interview Date: March 2026

Start Date: To be confirmed

Please note application forms must be submitted before the stated deadline - you will not be able to submit after 23:55 (even if you opened the form earlier). Only applications submitted via our official careers portal (warwick-careers.tal.net) will be considered.

What we Offer

We Provide a Comprehensive Range Of Benefits, Including

• An attractive pension scheme.
• 30 days holiday plus University Christmas closure.
• Generous parental/adoption leave policy.
• Onsite childcare facilities.
• Excellent learning and development opportunities.

We recognise the importance of a healthy work/life balance and offer access to flexible working arrangements. For more information, see here.

We are proud to be a Living Wage employer.

Our Commitment to Inclusion

Equality, Diversity, & Inclusion

Warwick is committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive and respectful community where everyone can thrive. We welcome applications from all backgrounds, cultures, and communities, and actively encourage candidates from underrepresented groups to apply. Find out more about our Social Inclusion work at Warwick. Find out more about our awards and accreditations. We are also one of the six founder institutions of the EUTOPIA European University Alliance.

Safeguarding & DBS

The University of Warwick is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all those we work with. Roles involving regulated activity are subject to a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check at the appropriate level, in line with the DBS Code of Practice. The University will ensure that anyone subject to a barring order does not undertake any work with the barred group (children and/or adults). All employees, volunteers, and partners are expected to share our commitment to safeguarding.

Rehabilitation of Ex-Offenders

The University will not discriminate against applicants who make a disclosure relating to a conviction. Disclosures at application stage are only visible to the DBS team, not to hiring panels. This ensures fairness and removes bias from the shortlisting process.

Job Description JD - Research Fellow (Magnetic Properties & Microstructure - FENDER Programme) (111341).pdf – 135KB Opens in a new window

Right to Work in the UK

If you do not yet have the right to work in the UK and/or are seeking sponsorship for a Skilled Worker visa, please follow this link which contains further information about obtaining the right to work in the UK.