Postdoc Researcher on Multiscale Modelling of Microstructure Development in Steels

Computational modelling of microstructure formation

Job description
This project aims to develop a physics-based 3D model that reproduces and predicts the formation of martensite and bainite in steels, while also considering the role of carbon segregation at defects, a key factor influencing these transformation processes. Furthermore, using atomistic simulations, the project seeks to determine critical parameters like interface mobility, carbon concentration at defects, and nucleation rates—values that typically require experimental data.

As postdoctoral researcher, you will work on the development of this model and on the validation of its outcome against experimental data. You will work in a challenging academic environment and will collaborate with industries in the implementation of this model. Further, you are expected to contribute to the research and education environment through discussions, the (co-) supervision of students and guest lectures.

Job requirements
We seek an outstanding, motivated and enthusiastic researcher with experience in microstructure development in metals and computational materials science.

Applicant must:

• Hold a PhD in the field of metals science and microstructural modelling.
• Have proven and extensive experience with microstructural analysis and computational modelling of microstructure development in metals.
• Have a critical, curious and creative approach to the research, with excellent problem-solving skills and communication skills.
• Have proven experience writing scientific publications and preparing communications for scientific and technical meetings with project partners.
• Have a motivation to work in an international, multidisciplinary, and academic-industrial team.
• Be willing to participate in educational activities such as guest lectures.
• Have proven excellent written and spoken English skills.

TU Delft (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 as one of our core values and we actively engage to be a university where you feel at home and can flourish. We value different perspectives and qualities. We believe this makes our work more innovative, the TU Delft community more vibrant and the world more just. Together, we imagine, invent and create solutions using technology to have a positive impact on a global scale. That is why we invite you to apply. Your application will receive fair consideration.

Challenge. Change. Impact!

Faculty Mechanical Engineering
From chip to ship. From machine to human being. From idea to solution. Driven by a deep-rooted desire to understand our environment and discover its underlying mechanisms, research and education at the ME faculty focusses on fundamental understanding, design, production including application and product improvement, materials, processes and (mechanical) systems.

ME is a dynamic and innovative faculty with high-tech lab facilities and international reach. It’s a large faculty but also versatile, so we can often make unique connections by combining different disciplines. This is reflected in ME’s outstanding, state-of-the-art education, which trains students to become responsible and socially engaged engineers and scientists. We translate our knowledge and insights into solutions to societal issues, contributing to a sustainable society and to the development of prosperity and well-being. That is what unites us in pioneering research, inspiring education and (inter)national cooperation.

Click here to go to the website of the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering. Do you want to experience working at our faculty? These videos will introduce you to some of our researchers and their work.

Conditions of employment

• Duration of contract is 2 years Temporary
• A job of 36-40 hours per week.
• Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities.
• An excellent pension scheme via the ABP.
• The possibility to compile an individual employment package every year.
• Discount with health insurers on supplemental packages.
• Flexible working week.
• Every year, 232 leave hours (at 38 hours). You can also sell or buy additional leave hours via the individual choice budget.
• Plenty of opportunities for education, training and courses.
• Partially paid parental leave
• Attention for working healthy and energetically with the vitality program.

Will you need to relocate to the Netherlands for this job? TU Delft is committed to make your move as smooth as possible! The HR unit, Coming to Delft Service, offers information on their website to help you prepare your relocation. In addition, Coming to Delft Service organises events to help you settle in the Netherlands, and expand your (social) network in Delft. A Dual Career Programme is available, to support your accompanying partner with their job search in the Netherlands. .

Additional information
For more information about this vacancy, please contact Prof. dr. Maria J. Santofimia. Email: M.J.SantofimiaNavarro@tudelft.nl.

Application procedure
Are you interested in this vacancy? Please apply no later than 6 January 2026 via the application button and upload the following documents:

• Your letter of motivation
• Your Curriculum Vitae
• Contact information of two references

For information about the application procedure, please contact Mrs. Anita van Vianen, email: recruitment-me@tudelft.nl.

Please note:

• You can apply online. We will not process applications sent by email and/or post.
• As part of knowledge security, TU Delft conducts a risk assessment during the recruitment of personnel. We do this, among other things, to prevent the unwanted transfer of sensitive knowledge and technology. The assessment is based on information provided by the candidates themselves, such as their motivation letter and CV, and takes place at the final stages of the selection process. When the outcome of the assessment is negative, the candidate will be informed. The processing of personal data in the context of the risk assessment is carried out on the legal basis of the GDPR: performing a public task in the public interest. You can find more information about this assessment on our website about knowledge security.
• Please do not contact us for unsolicited services.