PhD position: Multi-scale modelling of martensitic and diffusive transformations in green steels (1.0 FTE)

For the National Growth Fund (NGF) project “Groeien met Groen Staal” (GGS), a PhD position for the period of 4 years is available in the context of modelling green steel mechanics from the atomic scale. In this project, the University of Groningen will investigate atomic-scale mechanism of martensitic, bainitic and ferritic atomic-scale interface motion for multi-component alloy systems that are relevant for the new green steels compositions, including impurities and tramp elements. These models should inform higher-scale (microstructural) models of microstructure formation for green steels.

What are you going to do?

Steel industry is increasingly faced with demands to reduce their CO2 emission and to increase scrap uptake during recycling. However, steel scrap is often contaminated with unwanted, i.e. tramp elements, because of the limits imposed by processes and recycling technologies. Consequently, some impurity elements will enter into the steel. In order to guarantee steel quality, it is essential to understand how these interact with the microstructure (including interfaces) and properties of the steel. Atomistic modelling can provide crucial information regarding these interactions and the impact on phase formation. A better understanding provides subsequent opportunities to mitigate the detrimental effects of impurities or potentially even exploit them to attain desired properties, e.g. by improving or developing new secondary steel production routes.

The successful candidate will be supervised by Prof. Francesco Maresca, Chair of the Mechanics of Materials unit of the Engineering and Technology institute Groningen (ENTEG).

Talented, enthusiastic candidates with excellent analytical and communication skills are encouraged to apply. A MSc degree (or equivalent) in Mechanical Engineering, Physics, Materials Science, Civil (Structural) Engineering or a related discipline is required, with experience in solid mechanics and atomistic modelling of materials. A strong motivation and interest in pursuing theoretical and computational research in mechanics of materials is needed.

• 232 vacation hours per year, based on a 38-hour workweek (1.0 FTE). You can also work more or fewer hours in exchange for more or fewer free hours. For example, with a 40-hour workweek, you save 96 extra free hours, and with a 36-hour workweek, you lose 96 hours.
• End-of-year bonus of 8.3% and 8% holiday allowance.
• Extensive opportunities for personal and professional development.

The Faculty of Science and Engineering (FSE) provides teaching and research across a wide range of disciplines, from physics and biology to artificial intelligence, mechanical engineering, and pharmacy. In close collaboration with partners from industry, healthcare, and society, we contribute to the urgent challenges of our time, such as energy, sustainability, digitization, and medical technology. Our community is open and informal, with more than 7,000 students, 1,000 PhD students, and 1,400 staff members from all over the world. If you would like to learn more about the Faculty of Science and Engineering, visit rug.nl/fse. 

Founded in 1614, the University of Groningen enjoys an international reputation as a dynamic and innovative institution of higher education offering high-quality teaching and research. Flexible study programs and academic career opportunities in a wide variety of disciplines encourage the 33,000 students and researchers alike to develop their own individual talents. As one of the best research universities in Europe, the University of Groningen has joined forces with other top universities and networks worldwide to become a truly global center of knowledge.

Do you have any questions or need more information?

Questions about the content of the job?
Francesco Maresca (Associate Professor): F.Maresca@rug.nl

Questions about your application process?
Friso Salverda (Human Resources Adviser): f.d.salverda@rug.nl