The Department of Mechanics of Solids, Surfaces & Systems (MS3), part of the faculty of Engineering Technology (ET) is currently seeking a PhD candidate in the area of interface optimization in metal-thermoplastic hybrid joints. The work will be done in the Surface Engineering and Maintenance group, where we research topics related to damage mechanisms and lifetime prediction.

The performance of multi-material systems is largely controlled by the interfaces between their constituents. However, the joints between dissimilar entities with distinctive characteristics such as metals and thermoplastics are commonly classified with a low bonding strength. To increase the bonding strength of metals with thermoplastics and improve the reliability of the hybrid systems surface treatments are unavoidable.

This PhD research seeks to exploit a new surface treatment method to improve the bonding performance in metal -thermoplastic hybrids. It will focus on the development of experimental techniques as well as modelling tools to analyse and describe the physical mechanisms of bond formation. It will aim to optimize the short and long-term structural performance of metal -thermoplastic hybrids in terms of strength and robustness.

We are looking for a highly motivated PhD candidate to strengthen our research portfolio in surface treatments and hybrid joints. Your main task will be to develop and optimize a metal surface treatment set-up and to uncover the processing- microstructure- performance correlation in the hybrid joint. Careful experimental procedures, involving manufacturing the specimens combined with physical-mechanical testing and extensive microscopic investigations are required to describe the mechanisms at the interface. You will be part of a dedicated team and you will collaborate with world-leading scientists in the project consortium within University of Twente and University of the Manchester.

Your first responsibility is to carry out the research, but you are also encouraged to acquire teaching experience. We support you to broaden your knowledge by participating in national and international conferences and workshops and by visiting industrial companies, research institutes, and universities worldwide.

We are looking for a highly motivated, enthusiastic and driven researcher:

• You have a master’s degree in Physics, Materials, and Mechanical Engineering or equivalent
• You have a background in metal surface treatments, composites, adhesion, and fracture mechanics.
• You are creative and highly motivated to address major challenges in Hybrid Materials and Structures;
• You are an excellent researcher, eager to learn and to improve;
  You envision yourself working in an interdisciplinary and international environment;
• You are proficient in English.

• Four-year full-time PhD position, with a qualifier exam after 6-9 months;
• Excellent mentorship and a stimulating research environment to accelerate your further professional and personal growth;
• Full status as an employee at the University of Twente, including pension and health care benefits;
• Starting salary of € 2.395 gross per month in the first year and increasing to € 3.061 gross per month in the fourth year; 
• An annual holiday allowance of 8% of the gross annual salary, and an annual year-end bonus of 8.3%;
• A minimum of 29 holidays per year in case of full-time employment;
• The University of Twente is situated on a green and lively campus with lots of facilities for sports and other activities.