Lingbo Zhang

Materials Scientist (PhD near completion) with hands-on experience in advanced materials characterisation (FEG-SEM/EDS, XRD, synchrotron X-ray), data analysis, and technical problem-solving. Alongside research, gained part-time customer-facing hospitality and university service operations experience, building transferable strengths in teamwork, time management, communication, and reliable shift delivery. Seeking engineering or R&D roles where strong technical and operational skills are both valued.

PhD Researcher - Microstructural Evolution & Interfacial Stability (LPBF dissimilar metals) - The University of Manchester - Manchester, UK

(2020-09 - 2025-12)

• Designed and executed experimental programmes linking processing conditions to microstructure, phase formation, and defect mechanisms at dissimilar interfaces.
• Performed extensive characterisation using FEG-SEM and EDS, and phase analysis by XRD; interpreted results using metallurgical principles and quantitative image analysis.
• Developed structure-property correlations to explain cracking, porosity, chemical segregation, and interfacial stability.
• Wrote technical reports and manuscripts; communicated findings to supervisors and collaborators.

Visiting Researcher - Time-Resolved X-ray Failure/Fracture Analysis - Diamond Light Source - Oxford, UK

(2023-01 - 2023-01)

• Worked in a multidisciplinary team at a national facility to conduct time-resolved synchrotron X-ray measurements.
• Analysed time-series data to identify fracture/defect evolution pathways and propose mechanism-based explanations.
• Gained experience with facility workflows, experimental planning, and data handling under tight beamtime constraints.

Computational Physics & Materials Simulation - The University of Manchester - Manchester, UK

(2017-06 - 2017-09)

• Implemented numerical simulations of the Landau–Lifshitz–Gilbert (LLG) equation using Python to model spin dynamics in magnetic systems
• Applied mid-point time-stepping schemes for stable numerical integration and verified energy conservation in zero-damping regimes
• Investigated the impact of perturbation and interference terms on system evolution, strengthening understanding of algorithm stability and numerical accuracy
• Experience translating continuous physical equations into discrete computational algorithms, closely aligned with quantum algorithm design and simulation

Teaching Assistant (Electron Microscopy) - The University of Manchester - Manchester, UK

(2022-09 - 2023-01)

• Trained 30+ students in SEM operation and EDS analysis; supported safe and correct instrument use.

Undergraduate project support - The University of Manchester - Manchester, UK

(2022-02 - 2022-06)

• Demonstrated SEM operation (Tescan Mira 3) and helped design EDS experiments for elemental mapping.

Service Delivery Assistant (Part-time) - Student Support & Building Operations - The University of Manchester - Manchester, UK

(2024-09 - 2025-04)

• Supported day-to-day front-line service delivery for students, responding to requests in person and helping resolve routine issues quickly and professionally.
• Worked closely with team members across shifts, prioritising tasks and staying calm during busy periods - demonstrating strong teamwork and time management.

Hospitality Staff - Manchester Airport T2 Lounge - Manchester, UK

(2024-01 - 2024-06)

• Welcomed guests, checked lounge access, and supported smooth customer flow during peak periods in a fast-paced airport environment.
• Handled guest requests and seating coordination while maintaining professional communication and a high service standard.
• Collaborated with colleagues to keep lounge operations running efficiently, showing reliability, adaptability, and team-focused working.

PhD - Materials Science - The University of Manchester (2020-09 - 2026-06)

MPhil - Materials Science - The University of Manchester (2018-09 - 2020-06)

BSc (Hons) - Materials Science - The University of Manchester (2014-09 - 2018-06)