'The Town' star Hall linked to IM3

Rebecca Hall is in talks to star in 'Iron Man 3'.

The 'Town' actress is set to replace Jessica Chastain - who dropped out of the project earlier this week - as a "sexy scientist", believed to be Dr. Maya Hansen from Warren Ellis' Extremis story arc.

The genetic engineer is responsible for creating a new virus which targets nanotechnology, which is also used by Tony Stark/Iron Man (Robert Downey Jr.), leaving him vulnerable when it lands in the hands of his enemies.

Jessica wrote on Facebook she would be unable to take part in the third instalment of the Marvel series - directed by Shane Black - due to scheduling conflicts.

She said: "Sorry to say that Iron Man 3 isn't going to work out. My schedule is jammed packed and I can't fit anything else in. The press announced my possible attachment far too soon. I know many of you wanted me to be involved, and I'm so sorry to disappoint you.

"Hopefully there'll be another Marvel film in my future. Shane Black and everyone on the IM3 team are really wonderful. I'm very excited to see the film when it comes out. Xx (sic)"

'Iron Man 3' is due to be released in May 2013.