The Littauer Chair of Engineering Materials (010926)

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The role

This is a titled endowed chair, in honour of Ernest and Deveda Littauer. Before a remarkable career in Materials Engineering, with Lockheed Martin in the US, Ernest studied BSc Metallurgy and PhD Electro-Metallurgy at Battersea College of Technology (Surrey’s predecessor) in the 1950s and 60s. The successful candidate will liaise with the trustees of the Littauer estate.

As an endowed chair the post comes with an annual budget in support the post holder's research and impact. We expect this to initially fund a PDRA and two doctoral studentships overseen by the post holder.

The post holder will play a central role in growing the Engineering Materials research in the School of Engineering at both a National and International Level. The postholder’s research should have an appropriate balance of synergy and complementarity with materials science and engineering research already underway. Alignment with Materials Ageing, Performance, and Lifetime Prediction and a willingness to engage with Defence and Security partners are both especially desirable.

The role is open to someone with an excellent academic track record with any balance between experimental and modelling expertise.

About you

You will be:

An academic leader with national and international visibility with a strong publication track record.A research leader with a considerable portfolio of ongoing research in the field of materials science and engineering.A leader who can inspire, mentor, shape and grow the wider materials community in the School of Engineering (and more widely at the University of Surrey).An adept communicator with substantial experience of engaging with industrial partners and external stakeholders.

How to apply

Applications should be made through the University of Surrey's Job Opportunities webpage portal. Applicants are asked to upload:

A CV of no more than six pagesA cover letter which should include details of your track record in securing research income through individual and collaborative grants, and your track record of leadership and collegiality in research (as demonstrated by a strong publication record)A list of your research publications

Further Information

Any questions ahead of formal applications should be directed to Professor Mark Whiting, Professor of Materials Ageing, by email in the first instance: m.whiting@surrey.ac.uk referencing " The Littauer Chair of Engineering Materials" in the subject line.

Interviews will likely be held w/c 4th May.

The University of Surrey is committed to providing an inclusive environment that offers equal opportunities for all. â¯We place great value on diversity and are seeking to increase the diversity within our community and particularly encourage applications from under-represented groups, including people from Black, Asian and minority ethnic groups and people with disabilities

Closing Date: 19 Apr 2026

Area: Research & Teaching

Salary: Competitive Salary