PhD position Multi-scale modelling of precipitate strengthening
Apply nowPhD position Multi-scale modelling of precipitate strengthening
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 micro-scale and atomic-scale processes of dislocation-precipitate interactions for multi-component alloy systems that are relevant for the new green steels compositions, where precipitates can occur due to impurities and tramp elements. The goal of the project is to devise a multi-scale framework where atomic-scale mechanisms of precipitate shearing/looping are incorporated into micro-scale framework of dislocation-precipitate interactions. This model will enable to predict precipitate strengthening as a function of the green steel composition.
The successful candidate will be supervised by prof. dr. Francesco Maresca, chair of the Mechanics of Materials unit of the Engineering and Technology institute Groningen (ENTEG).
PhD position Multi-scale modelling of precipitate strengthening
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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 precipitates and dislocation networks) and properties of the steel. Atomistic modelling can provide crucial information regarding the intrinsic looping vs shearing mechanisms of precipitates, while microscale simulations enable to predict strengthening due to dislocation-precipitate interactions. 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.
Who are you?
Talented, enthusiastic candidates with excellent analytical and communication skills are encouraged to apply. A MSc degree (or equivalent) in Mechanical Engineering, Civil (Structural) Engineering or a related discipline is required, with a strong background in solid mechanics. Experience with finite element implementation, coding, discrete dislocation mechanics, and atomistic modelling (molecular dynamics) are a plus. A strong motivation and interest in pursuing theoretical and computational research in mechanics of materials is needed.
What can you expect from us?
- In accordance with the collective labor agreement for Dutch universities, we offer a salary of at least € 3.059 up to a maximum of € 3.881 (promovendus) gross per month for a full-time employment contract.
- 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.
- A temporary position of one year with the option of renewal for another three years; prolongation of the contract is contingent on sufficient progress in the first year to indicate that you will successfully complete your PhD thesis within the next three years. A PhD training programme is part of the agreement.
Where will you be working?
At the University of Groningen (UG), researchers from all fields of academia and technology are working on academic challenges and societal questions. Lecturers prepare their students for meaningful careers within or outside the academic world. Interdisciplinary research and teaching, sharing of knowledge, collaboration with businesses, government institutions, and societal organizations are aspects that are of the utmost importance to this European top university. The UG aims to be an open academic community with an inclusive and safe working climate that invites you to add your value.
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.
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Application procedure
After submitting your application, you will receive a confirmation by email.
The selection committee assesses your application and you will be notified as soon as possible whether you are invited for an interview.
We would like to get to know each other better in a first interview, which can take place either online or on location.
We may schedule a second interview with you. Depending on the position, this interview can be complemented with an assessment or guest lecture.
After a positive interview, we will discuss the terms of employment together. When everything is completed, we are happy to welcome you at the University of Groningen!
Interested?
Does this vacancy appeal to you? If so, click on the button below and apply straightaway.
Please add the following documents to your application:
- Letter of motivation (max. 1 page).
- Detailed curriculum vitae. Please include an overview of your experience with continuum solid mechanics (including finite deformations), calculus, linear algebra, coding skills. Please also include experience in other fields such as finite element implementation, coding, discrete dislocation mechanics, and molecular dynamics.
- Official transcripts of your BSc and MSc grades.
- List of at least two references with full contact information (including the supervisors of your final BSc and final MSc projects).
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
Information about applying
When scheduling meetings, we will take your schedule into account as much as possible.
The University of Groningen considers social safety important. We strive to be a university where staff and students feel respected and at home, regardless of differences in background, experiences, perspectives, and identity. For more information, see also our page about our diversity policy.
Acquisition is not appreciated.
Our selection procedure follows the guidelines of the NVP Application Code.
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