David Ludlow

Dave Ludlow is from Blackpool in the UK; following his MEng with Industrial Experience in Metallurgy from UMIST, Dave took up and recently completed his EngD in Metallurgy from The University of Manchester. Here he tells us about his experiences of the EngD and his career path so far following graduation.

Can you tell us a bit about your research project?

The title of my EngD project was The Influence of Direct Chill Casting Parameters on the Structure and Properties of Magnesium Alloys. The project investigated the main casting parameters for an experimental DC casting process used for producing magnesium alloy billets and to determine their effects on the billet structure and properties. A computer model was developed that simulated the DC casting process and was used for a "What If?" analysis to study changes in casting parameters, alloy properties and process design.

Why did you choose this course of study, and why Manchester?

Personally, I wanted to see how far up the academic ladder I could climb and I enjoyed doing research in my year out and final year of my MEng degree. I chose to do an EngD as the project was based in industry and of significant importance, the extra money (compared to a PhD!) and the professional development associated with the EngD programme.

I chose Manchester because it is one of the best places to live and study in the UK and the School of Materials is one of the best in the country with excellent facilities. Other universities in the North West just did not compare.

What have been the main benefits of this course to you – and were there any highlights to your time in Manchester?

This course has opened the door to an exciting and rewarding career path in the North West.

The main highlights of my time in Manchester – getting married and the birth of my first son happened while I was in Manchester; I also made lots of friends through my studies and I am still in regular contact with many of them and I work quite close with several of them too! Finally, submitting my thesis, passing my viva and graduating this summer!

So, what are you doing now and how do you think your EngD has helped your career?

I have worked for Serco Technical and Assurance Services in Warrington for the last three years in the Structural Integrity Department. Occasionally I get the chance to visit the School of Materials on work related issues.

Obviously the course has provided me with the technical grounding required to get through the doors of a leading technical organisation and I've made some great contacts along the way.

What are your plans for the next couple of years?

To obtain my chartered engineer status from IoM3 and develop my project management (currently running projects up to the value of £200k) and technical skills further. My longer terms plan is to become an established scientist / engineer in the field of Structural Integrity.

Do you have any final tips or advice for students looking to study a similar subject to you?

Hindsight is truly a wonderful thing!

• Plan your research in as much detail as possible with achievable and measurable milestones (this will also help you in your future career).
• Flag problems with your supervisors / peers / department as soon as they occur so the appropriate course of action can be taken.
• Make sure your research project has good scientific grounding.
• Choose a project that is going to be useful for your career and enable you to start higher up the pay band.
• Start writing your thesis as early as possible, preferably as you go along. Don't leave it to the very end as your enthusiasm is likely to have waned and it's very demanding on your time if you have to write while working, especially if you have a wife and children to support!

Finally, there are many different challenging and rewarding career opportunities on offer in materials science, choose / tailor your degree to match your career aspirations and personality.