معرفی
John Francis is a Professor of Materials Welding and Joining at The University of Manchester, leading the Laser Processing Research Centre. He holds Fellowships from the Institute of Materials, Minerals & Mining (FIMMM) and the Higher Education Academy (FHEA), and is accredited as a European/International Welding Engineer (EWE/IWE). He joined the university in 2011 as a Senior Lecturer, progressing to Reader and Chair. His career spans over 20 years in welding and cladding technologies, with early work at CSIRO in Australia addressing aerospace and power generation challenges.
Education:
- PhD in Principles for Open-Arc Weld Deposition of High-Chromium White Iron Surface Layers, The University of Adelaide (1995–1999)
- Bachelor of Engineering (Mechanical Engineering), The University of Adelaide (1991–1995)
Research Interests: John’s work focuses on microstructure evolution and residual stresses in welded joints, post-weld heat treatment, and in-service performance. He develops welding procedures to mitigate cracking and enhance structural performance. Key areas include:
- Large steel component fabrication
- Steel weld toughness optimization
- Dissimilar material joining
Research Output Trends (2020–2025): Recent articles address electron beam welding in nuclear pressure vessels, novel cobalt-free alloys, and additive manufacturing processes. Themes include residual stress mitigation, advanced reactor design, and material characterization for nuclear applications.
Awards & Fellowships:
- Fellow of the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining (FIMMM)
- Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (FHEA)
- EWE/IWE Certification
Advising & Grants: Supervised 11 postgraduate research students and led projects like the Laser Processing Research Centre (LPRC) and Materials for Demanding Environments CDT. His work spans nuclear engineering, laser processing, and innovative manufacturing.
Labs & Facilities: Academic lead for equipment including MEBW-60 Micro Electron Beam Welders and Robotic Welding Cells at the Henry Royce Institute for Advanced Materials.
