A PhD position is available in the Department of Materials Science and Engineering of TU Delft. The PhD will work in the framework of a European project funded by the RFCS (Research Fund for Coal and Steel) in which TU Delft (The Netherlands), IMDEA-Materials (Spain), Rina-CSM (Italy) and Acerinox (Spain) are the participants forming the consortium. The project is expected to start the 1st of June 2019.

This project aims to generate a new class of martensitic stainless steels for lightweight structural applications. This means the novel creation of a new advance high strength steel with stainless properties. Investigations in the Department of Materials Science and Engineering of TU Delft will be twofold.

• Firstly, it will focus on the understanding of the microstructural evolution during the application of Quenching and Partitioning (Q&P) heat treatments in this ew class of steels. This study will be performed by the application of physically-based models of microstructural evolution and partitioning of alloying elements during phase transformations in steels as well as by the experimental analysis of compositional gradients and kinetics of processes using high resolution techniques.
• In addition, a detailed analysis will be performed on the relationships between microstructure and corrosion in these new steel grades, where results will be utilized to further optimize the microstructures and alloys designed under the present approach. The analysis of the relations between microstructure and corrosion properties will be performed by the experimental analysis of passivity and corrosion resistance using electrochemical methods with high spatial resolution.

The supervision of this project will be performed by Prof. Dr. Maria Santofimia and by Dr. Yaiza Gonzalez Garcia.

We are searching for an enthusiastic candidate with the following qualifications:

• a MSc degree in physics, chemistry, materials science or a similar field.
• knowledge on physics of materials, solid-solid phase transformations and diffusion phenomena.
• Knowledge on corrosion science and/or engineering, electrochemistry or similar field is an asset.
• A critical and creative approach to the research is essential. An “academic attitude” is required: excellent analytical and experimental skills, taking initiative, curiosity and critical thinking about the research approach and about the results.
• Strong communication skills, ability to integrate in an international environment, and good social behavior.
• Communication skills must include excellent spoken and written English.

Fixed-term contract: 4 years.

TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, a discount for health insurance and sport memberships, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged. An International Children’s Centre offers childcare and an international primary school. Dual Career Services offers support to accompanying partners. Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities.

As a PhD candidate you will be enrolled in the TU Delft Graduate School. TU Delft Graduate School provides an inspiring research environment; an excellent team of supervisors, academic staff and a mentor; and a Doctoral Education Programme aimed at developing your transferable, discipline-related and research skills. Please visit http://www.tudelft.nl/phd for more information.

Delft University of Technology

Delft University of Technology (TU Delft) is a multifaceted institution offering education and carrying out research in the technical sciences at an internationally recognised level. Education, research and design are strongly oriented towards applicability. TU Delft develops technologies for future generations, focusing on sustainability, safety and economic vitality. At TU Delft you will work in an environment where technical sciences and society converge. TU Delft comprises eight faculties, unique laboratories, research institutes and schools.

https://www.tudelft.nl

Faculty Mechanical, Maritime and Materials Engineering

The 3mE Faculty trains committed engineering students, PhD candidates and post-doctoral researchers in groundbreaking scientific research in the fields of mechanical, maritime and materials engineering. 3mE is the epitome of a dynamic, innovative faculty, with a European scope that contributes demonstrable economic and social benefits. 

The Department of Materials Science and Engineering aims to provide internationally recognized, high-quality materials research of benefit to industry and society, addressing material lifecycle, structure and functionality from a physics-based perspective, and to furnish graduates and post-graduates with a top-level education in materials science and engineering, preparing them to meet existing and future technological and societal challenges. With a focus on metals, the aim is to develop materials with an optimum performance and low environmental footprint.    

https://www.tudelft.nl/en/3me