R K

PhD-qualified Metallurgy & Materials Specialist with over 6 years of industrial and academic experience, including significant work with British Steel and the petrochemical sector. A Six Sigma Black Belt and IOM3 Member (pursuing CEng), expert in optimising manufacturing processes from concept to launch. Proven track record in Additive Manufacturing (DED), coating systems for corrosion, and advanced characterization (SEM, EBSD).

Skilled in leading continuous improvement (Kaizen, 8D, VSM) and ensuring strict compliance with ISO 9000 and HSE standards. A multilingual communicator dedicated to solving complex engineering challenges in high-hazard, high-performance environments.

Manufacturing & Materials Engineering - Advanced Forming Research Centre, UK - UK

(2020-10 - 2026-02)

• Investigated structure–property relationships in electrical steels produced by Laser Metal Deposition (LMD/DED) for electric motor / powertrain applications.
• Performed material characterisation using SEM, EBSD, XCT, metallography, and microstructural analysis to evaluate defects, porosity, texture, and material performance.
• Conducted failure analysis and process development to improve manufacturing feasibility, durability, and material properties of advanced metallic components.
• Applied Design of Experiments (DoE) and process control to optimise additive manufacturing parameters and improve repeatability, quality, and performance.
• Supported technical reporting and cross-functional collaboration in a fast-paced R&D environment focused on high-performance transport applications.

Engineering & Materials Science Tutor - University of East London - Hybrid, UK

(2023-08)

• Delivered postgraduate teaching in sustainability, materials and industrial transition topics.
• Supervised student projects, developing analytical thinking and industry-relevant problem-solving skills.

Research Fellow - National Manufacturing Institute of Scotland Glasgow - Glasgow, UK

(2023-03 - 2023-08)

• Sustainability & R&D: Led Additive Manufacturing (DED) recycling research for motor components in collaboration with ZF and FEMHUB groups, reducing material waste and landfill impact.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Produced high-level technical reports and marketing materials to drive technology adoption and cross-functional stakeholder engagement.

Aeronautical Engineering Lecturer - Ayrshire College - Ayrshire, UK

(2023-08 - 2025-02)

• Developed/taught courses: Materials Science, Advanced Composite Materials, Aero Flight, Aircraft Construction, Aircraft Propulsion Systems, Aircraft Engines.
• Mentored and teaching Ryanair, Collins, spirit AeroSystems apprentices, enhancing teamwork/adaptability
• Developed and delivered advanced courses aligning curriculum with strict industry standards.

Process Fuel Engineer - British Steel, UK - UK

(2020-03 - 2020-10)

• Conducted failure analysis and Root Cause Analysis (RCA) on material and equipment failures in high-temperature steel manufacturing environments.
• Supported process control, quality improvement, and continuous improvement initiatives using Six Sigma and statistical analysis to reduce defects and improve reliability.
• Investigated high-temperature material behaviour, thermal stability, and refractory performance to improve durability in demanding industrial conditions.
• Collaborated with quality and operations teams to improve manufacturing feasibility, compliance, and material performance in a fast-paced production environment

Technical Engineer/ Development Metallurgist - British Steel, UK - UK

(2018-09 - 2020-03)

• Provided metallurgical and technical engineering support across high-hazard steel manufacturing operations.
• Led root cause investigations into material and equipment failures in high-temperature environments, identifying degradation mechanisms and implementing corrective actions.
• Supported materials selection decisions through assessment of refractory and high-temperature material performance in furnace and coke oven applications.
• Worked closely with operations, maintenance and quality teams to improve process control, equipment reliability and safe operation.
• Drove continuous improvement initiatives using Six Sigma tools, contributing to a 15% reduction in defects and improved process efficiency.
• Produced technical recommendations to support decision-making on material behaviour, process issues and operational reliability.

Founder and Technical Lead - Shiraz Casting

(2014 - 2015)

• Managed and developed a 20-person production team, setting clear expectations and coordinating daily manufacturing activities to deliver against safety, quality, cost and output targets.
• Led end-to-end foundry operations across melting, casting and finishing processes, ensuring stable production flow, resource coordination and on-time delivery.
• Managed daily shift/production activities across melting, casting and finishing
• Implemented lean manufacturing and process control improvements to improve product consistency, reduce waste and enhance operational efficiency.
• Oversaw compliance with technical specifications, contract requirements and customer quality standards for cast iron production.
• Balanced manpower, materials and equipment resources effectively to meet production priorities and maintain workflow continuity.
• Supported problem-solving and issue resolution across production operations, introducing corrective actions to improve process stability and team performance.

Materials Engineer, Process Engineer - Shiraz Petrochemical Company

(2013 - 2014)

• Supported materials and process engineering activities in a petrochemical environment, contributing to asset integrity, safe operation and compliance.
• Performed NDT inspections (VT, PT, UT, MT) and developed inspection procedures for condition assessment and defect detection of industrial assets.
• Contributed to engineering assessments related to materials performance, equipment condition and operational reliability in demanding process service conditions.
• Worked within strict safety and environmental requirements, supporting risk-based engineering decisions and safe systems of work.
• Gained practical exposure to degradation-related issues in process plant environments affecting metallic systems.

Doctorate - Design, Manufacturing, and Engineering Management - Strathclyde University

Master of Advanced Metallurgy - Metallurgy - University of Sheffield

Bachelor's Degree - Materials Science Engineering - University of Science and Research of Fars