Forgemasters chief lands university role

Jesus Talamantes-Silva, director of research and development (R&D) at Forgemasters, will take on a role as visiting professor for the department of engineering materials at the University of Sheffield.

The department, one of the largest in the country, has achieved high ratings for its research.

Mr Talamantes-Silva's own research focuses on the development and use of finite element and related techniques for engineering simulations.

Forgemasters' significant investment in R&D has allowed Mr Talamantes-Silva to develop his expertise – with the company annually spending between five and 10 per cent of its profits on R&D companywide.

Mr Talamantes-Silva, who holds a PhD in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Sheffield, will be invited to give lectures to both undergraduates and postgraduates and will be asked for advice on research matters in his new role.

The appointment also strengthens existing links between Forgemasters and the University of Sheffield.

The company has at least two students from the University of Sheffield within its expanding research team at any time and two PhD graduates from the university have been appointed to Forgemasters' R&D team.

Mr Talamantes-Silva, originally from Monterrey in Mexico, said: "I am thrilled to start work with the university. It is a wonderful opportunity which will allow me to share my knowledge of the industry with the country's future engineers.

"As a company, Forgemasters recognises the huge importance of the academic community in Sheffield, and if we can contribute our expertise in any way at all, we are delighted to do so."

Mr Talamantes-Silva's appointment highlights the relationship Forgemasters is building with the city's academic community.

Forgemasters chairman Tony Pedder is a pro-chancellor at the University of Sheffield and chair of the human resource management committee.