The detection of heavy metal ions (HMI) is an essential step in water treatment. Due to their adverse effect on human health and the environment, strict regulations are set forth certain HMIs and concentrations in wastewater. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) possesses great potential in providing live and quantitative data about water composition. However, the interfacial phenomena must be well-defined in advance. To this end, systematic physiochemical analyses of the surfaces & interfaces, with a set of HMI-included aqueous solutions, are proposed. Also, the development and fabrication of the EIS sensor including design improvement, contact deposition, and lithography steps are foreseen. During the course of the project, the experimental results and models defined will be communicated regularly with other parties for artificial intelligence and programming purposes.

The PhD project will run with a close collaboration with industrial and academic partners demanding frequent progress meetings and data sharing with other parties. 

Department
The Department of Materials Science and Engineering undertakes innovative research dedicated to developing, producing, characterizing and manipulating materials, with a focus on metals. Our goal is to enhance fundamental understanding, forming the basis for better performance, a longer life cycle and preserved functionality, while at the same time improving the sustainable use of resources. With a focus on metals and metal related materials, the MSE department conducts research dedicated to the sustainable development and characterization of materials that perform better, last longer, enhance functionality, conserve resources and have a low environmental footprint, bridging the gap between societal needs and available resources.

It is expected that you will:

• Setup the experimental platform and model solutions.
• Conduct relevant electrochemical measurements including EIS.
• Conduct in-situ and ex-situ spectroscopy and surface and interface analyses to define equivalent circuit models.
• Tune and fabricate sensors in clean rooms.
• Contribute to programming and artificial intelligence.
• Communicate the experimental results with partners.
• Travel for measurments and meetings.
• Write a doctoral dissertation, publish results in high-impact peer-reviewed journals, and present research in international conferences.
• Engage in education activities, such as supervising master students.

You should have the following qualifications:

• MSc in materials science, chemical engineering, electrical (control) engineering, or a related area.
• Experience with analytical electrochemistry, in particular EIS technique.
• Experience with surface & interface analyses.
• Experience with clean-room and fabrication processes (preferred).
• Eager to conduct a multidisciplinary project.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to be a team-player in a multidisciplinary setting.
• Excellent fundamental research mindset with application affinity
• Self-starter with initiative and the ability to setup, organize and execute your research. 

Fixed-term contract: 4 years.

TU Delft offers PhD-candidates a 4-year contract, with an official go/no go progress assessment after one year. Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, increasing from € 2434 per month in the first year to € 3111 in the fourth year. As a PhD candidate you will be enrolled in the TU Delft Graduate School. The TU Delft Graduate School provides an inspiring research environment with an excellent team of supervisors, academic staff and a mentor. The Doctoral Education Programme is aimed at developing your transferable, discipline-related and research skills.

The TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, discounts on health insurance and sport memberships, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged. For international applicants we offer the Coming to Delft Service and Partner Career Advice to assist you with your relocation.

Delft University of Technology

Delft University of Technology is built on strong foundations. As creators of the world-famous Dutch waterworks and pioneers in biotech, TU Delft is a top international university combining science, engineering and design. It delivers world class results in education, research and innovation to address challenges in the areas of energy, climate, mobility, health and digital society. For generations, our engineers have proven to be entrepreneurial problem-solvers, both in business and in a social context. At TU Delft we embrace diversity and aim to be as inclusive as possible (see our Code of Conduct). Together, we imagine, invent and create solutions using technology to have a positive impact on a global scale.

Challenge. Change. Impact!

Faculty Mechanical, Maritime and Materials Engineering

The Faculty of 3mE carries out pioneering research, leading to new fundamental insights and challenging applications in the field of mechanical engineering. From large-scale energy storage, medical instruments, control technology and robotics to smart materials, nanoscale structures and autonomous ships. The foundations and results of this research are reflected in outstanding, contemporary education, inspiring students and PhD candidates to become socially engaged and responsible engineers and scientists. The faculty of 3mE is a dynamic and innovative faculty with an international scope and high-tech lab facilities. Research and education focus on the design, manufacture, application and modification of products, materials, processes and mechanical devices, contributing to the development and growth of a sustainable society, as well as prosperity and welfare.

Click here to go to the website of the Faculty of Mechanical, Maritime and Materials Engineering. Do you want to experience working at our faculty? This video will introduce you to some of our researchers and their work.