Dr. Talha J. Pirzada C.Eng FIMechE is a materials scientist and an academic at the University of Oxford. He earned a Bachelor of Engineering in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Bath, a Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering from University College London (UCL), and a Doctor of Philosophy (DPhil) in Aerospace Materials at the University of Oxford. During his doctoral studies, Dr. Talha J. Pirzada trained in electron microscopy at Harvard University. His work spans research, education, and industry, establishing him as a notable figure in aerospace materials and innovation.
Dr. Talha J. Pirzada specializes in advanced materials for aerospace and defence, including oxide-based ceramic matrix composites (Ox-CMCs), prepreg tape production, and X-ray tomography. He collaborates with the National Composites Centre and supports projects under the UK Ministry of Defence. In industry, Dr. Talha J. Pirzada serves as Research & Technology Manager at Cross Manufacturing Ltd, applying materials research to practical aerospace solutions.
He started his professional career in 2011, at the National Physical Laboratory as a junior research scientist in the Materials division. He worked on a non-destructive technique that used micro hardness to measure the residual stresses present in aerospace alloys during service. His BEng dissertation was focused on using Metal Organic Frameworks to be modified for solar water splitting which got published in Chemistry Communications. During his MSc at University College London, Dr. Talha worked with Professor Adam Wojcik on using AC Potential Drop and DC Potential drop to come up with a Non-destructive method of measuring Alpha Case in Aerospace grade Titanium Alloys. After completing his MSc he worked at UCL as a visiting associate, leading lab sessions on non destructive testing techniques.
In 2017 Dr. Talha was offered a fully funded place at Linacre College, University of Oxford to pursue his DPhil in Advance materials. His research focused on developing a UK based supply chain for advanced materials for use in aerospace and defence applications. He formulated an Oxide based Ceramic matrix composite materials system in the lab and worked on upscaling it through the TRL (Technology Readiness Levels) processes. During his DPhil, he was offered a Stipendiary Lectureship in Materials Science at Mansfield College, involving teaching and undergraduate admissions responsibilities, which he continues to hold.
Dr. Talha J. Pirzada serves as the Academic Lead for the Oxford Scholars Programme (OSP), an academically rigorous programme for high school students, designing curricula that integrate STEM education, leadership, and AI literacy. He is also the Co-Founder and Development Lead of the Oxford Pakistan Programme (OPP), leading fundraising and development efforts that have enabled the programme to award over £1 million in scholarships. Dr. Talha has supervised MSc and DPhil students across multiple institutions and has extensive experience mentoring students.
Dr. Talha J. Pirzada is a Chartered Engineer and a Fellow of the Institute of Mechanical Engineers (FIMechE). He is also a Research Fellow in the Department of Materials at the University of Oxford and a Junior Research Fellow at Lady Margaret Hall, University of Oxford.