The Particles on the Edge (PLEDGE) project

PLEDGE is a challenging research project funded by the Dutch government and Materials innovation institute M2i. It aims to understand the consequences of 'green' steel making (i) using a hydrogen-based production process and (ii) with an increased usage of recycled (scrap) material. The mechanical properties of any steel rely strongly on second-phase particles in the metallic microstructure, yet, the amount and distribution of second-phase particles can vary considerably in green steels. Therefore, the goal of the PLEDGE project is to deeply understand and manage the microscopic deformation mechanisms in the presence of second-phase particles, to enable future green steel making. To address this goal, a multi-scale integrated experimental-numerical micromechanical approach is adopted.

Vacancy for a numerically oriented PhD student with a focus on computational micro-mechanical modelling

• In the numerical PhD project within PLEDGE, you will develop and apply state-of-the-art three-dimensional computational crystal plasticity and internal boundary modelling to study the influence of particle size, particle distribution, etc. on the mechanical properties of the material.
• The modelling will also be employed to replicate, and hence rationalize, advanced in-situ experiments performed in the experimental PhD project within PLEDGE.
• Your models and results will serve as a basis for the macroscale exploitation and industrial application, which will be carried out in another subproject in PLEDGE by an Engineering Doctorate (EngD) student.

Section Mechanics of Materials

You will work in the section of Mechanics of Materials (MoM) (www.tue.nl/mechmat) at the department of Mechanical Engineering of Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e). The MoM section is recognized worldwide for its high-level research on experimental analysis, theoretical understanding and predictive modelling of complex mechanical behavior in engineering materials at different length scales (e.g, plasticity, damage, fracture), which emerges from the physics and mechanics of the underlying multi-phase microstructure. An integrated numerical-experimental approach is generally adopted for this goal. A state-of-the-art computing infrastructure is in place for the numerical work in this project.

• A talented, motivated, enthusiastic, curiosity-driven researcher. Deep analytical skills, initiative, creativity, and flexibility are highly desired.
• A MSc degree in Mechanical Engineering, Applied Mathematics, Materials Science, Aerospace Engineering, Applied Physics, or similar. A strong background in continuum mechanics and numerical methods is required.
• Additional experience in materials science, metallurgy, experimental mechanics, mechanical testing, micromechanics, or structure-property relationships is of benefit.
• Interest to work in an interdisciplinary project, with a strong scientific profile, but in close coordination with industrial partners such as Tata Steel and Bosch.
• Excellent oral and writing skills in English.  

A meaningful job in a dynamic and ambitious university, in an interdisciplinary setting and within an international network. You will work on a beautiful, green campus within walking distance of the central train station. In addition, we offer you:

• Full-time employment for four years, with an intermediate evaluation (go/no-go) after nine months. You will spend 10% of your employment on teaching tasks.
• Salary and benefits (such as a pension scheme, paid pregnancy and maternity leave, partially paid parental leave) in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, scale P (min. €2,872 max. €3,670).
• A year-end bonus of 8.3% and annual vacation pay of 8%.
• You are offered an advanced PhD-level training program in the field of Engineering Mechanics, organized by the Dutch Graduate School on Engineering Mechanics (engineeringmechanics.nl).
• High-quality training programs and other support to grow into a self-aware, autonomous scientific researcher. At TU/e we challenge you to take charge of your own learning process.
• An excellent technical infrastructure, on-campus children's day care and sports facilities.
• An allowance for commuting, working from home and internet costs.
• A Staff Immigration Team and a tax compensation scheme (the 30% facility) for international candidates. 

About TU/e

Eindhoven University of Technology is an internationally top-ranking university in the Netherlands that combines scientific curiosity with a hands-on attitude. Our spirit of collaboration translates into an open culture and a top-five position in collaborating with advanced industries. Fundamental knowledge enables us to design solutions for the highly complex problems of today and tomorrow.

Curious to hear more about what it's like as a PhD candidate at TU/e? Please watch the video.

More information

Do you recognize yourself in this profile and would you like to know more about the scientific content of the PhD project? Please feel free to contact us: dr. Ron Peerlings (r.h.j.peerlings@tue.nl), prof. Marc Geers (m.g.d.geers@tue.nl) or dr. Johan Hoefnagels (j.p.m.hoefnagels@tue.nl). 

Visit our website for more information about the application process or the conditions of employment. You can also contact HRServices.Gemini@tue.nl.

Are you inspired and would like to know more about working at TU/e? Please visit our career page.

Application

Application documents (in PDF format) must contain:

• a cover letter in which you briefly describe your motivation and qualifications for the position.
• a detailed Curriculum Vitae, including:
• a list of your publications
• a brief description of your MSc thesis and BSc project.
• contact information of three references

• The official grade lists of your BSc., MSc. (and PhD) education, including all your courses.

We look forward to your application. Closing date is December 1, 2024, but we will screen applications as we receive them. Promising candidates may expect an online interview, possibly followed by an invitation to visit us in Eindhoven.