Materials processing focuses on transforming raw materials into high-performance components through the precise control of manufacturing processes. By tailoring processing conditions globally or locally, it enables the engineering of microstructures, phase distributions, grain morphology, crystallographic texture, residual stresses and defect populations that ultimately determine a material’s mechanical and functional performance. Our research combines advanced manufacturing technologies, including additive manufacturing, thermomechanical processing, welding and heat treatments, with state-of-the-art characterization, computational modelling and data-driven approaches to establish process–structure–property relationships. This knowledge enables the design of next-generation materials with spatially tailored properties for demanding applications in aerospace, energy, transportation and healthcare.

We employ state-of-the-art electron microscopy together with synchrotron and neutron scattering and imaging to characterize materials across multiple length scales, from the atomic to the component level. Our research encompasses post-manufacturing characterization, in situ and operando investigations during manufacturing, and in situ characterization during and after mechanical or environmental degradation. These approaches enable us to quantify the evolution of microstructure, crystallographic texture, residual stresses, phase transformations and defects, providing fundamental insight into material performance.

We investigate the mechanical behaviour and long-term reliability of engineering materials under mechanical, thermal and environmental loading. Research focuses on deformation and failure mechanisms, including fatigue, fracture, phase transformations, TRIP/TWIP behaviour and shape memory effects, as well as degradation processes such as corrosion and hydrogen embrittlement. By linking microstructural evolution to macroscopic response, we establish structure–property–performance relationships that enable the design of materials with enhanced durability and reliability for demanding engineering applications.

We leverage the unique capabilities of large-scale research facilities, including synchrotron and neutron sources, to investigate materials using advanced diffraction and imaging techniques. Our research combines state-of-the-art characterization with the development of novel in situ and operando experimental environments, enabling the study of materials during manufacturing, mechanical loading, hydrogen exposure and other service conditions. These approaches provide unique insights into the dynamic evolution of microstructure, phase transformations, residual stresses and deformation mechanisms, advancing the understanding of process–structure–performance relationships.