Applications are invited for a Research Associate at the University of Cambridge to perform advanced quantum mechanical modelling of Zr-based MAX phases (e.g. Zr2SnC) which are layered ternary compounds having both metallic and ceramic characteristics. Because of their potential to withstand radiation damage they have been proposed for use in advanced reactor systems. The calculations will focus on point defect formation, phase stability and interfacial strength. Both known and hypothetical MAX phase systems will be studied. 

The project forms part of an EPSRC award on Carbides for Future Fission Environments (CAFFE) and is a collaboration between theorists and experimentalists at the University of Cambridge, Imperial College London and the University of Manchester.

Suitable candidates should have or about to be awarded a PhD in condensed matter physics or materials science and have experience with density functional calculations, large scale computing and, preferably, the modelling of defects and interfaces. Funds for this post are available from 1 June 2015 for 36 months. Salary range is £24,775 - £37,394.

Applications should include a covering letter, CV, publications list, contact details for three professional referees, and a completed form CHRIS/6 (Parts I and III downloadable from http://www.admin.cam.ac.uk/offices/hr/forms/chris6/), and should be sent by email only to Dr Paul Bristowe, Atomistic Simulation Group, Department of Materials Science and Metallurgy, University of Cambridge, 27 Charles Babbage Rd, Cambridge CB3 0FS, UK, email address: [email protected]

Please quote reference LJ05800 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.