"PhD position in Computational multiscale modelling of ‘Green Steels’"

Job Summary

The project focuses on computational multiscale modelling to assess the influence of scrap-induced changes and contaminations on the performance of stainless steels undergoing phase transformations. It aims to establish predictive insights between microstructures and engineering properties for sustainable steel production.

Responsibilities

• Conduct an extensive literature review on multi-scale models for strain-induced phase transformations and the impact of tramp elements on stainless steels.
• Develop a multi-scale framework for strain-induced martensitic phase transformations in austenitic metastable steels.
• Incorporate the phase transformation model into a representative volume element (RVE) using crystal plasticity at the meso-scale level.
• Homogenize the RVE response for use at the macroscopic level.
• Extend the model to account for contaminations through solid solution elements, precipitates, or second-phase particles.
• Validate the macroscopic thermo-mechanical properties.

Qualifications and Requirements

• A MSc degree in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Aerospace Engineering, Applied Physics, or a similar field.
• Strong background in continuum mechanics and numerical methods.
• Additional experience in materials science, metallurgy, experimental mechanics, mechanical testing, micromechanics, or structure-property relationships is beneficial.
• Interest in working on an interdisciplinary project with industrial partners.
• Excellent oral and writing skills in English.
• Attributes: Talented, motivated, enthusiastic, curiosity-driven, with deep analytical skills, initiative, creativity, and flexibility.

What the Employer Offers

• Full-time employment for four years with an intermediate assessment after nine months.
• Salary range from €3059 to €3881 per month, in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, scale P.
• Additional benefits including a year-end bonus of 8.3%, annual vacation pay of 8%, pension scheme, paid pregnancy and maternity leave, partially paid parental leave, high-quality training programs, excellent technical infrastructure, on-campus children’s day care, sports facilities, allowance for commuting, working from home and internet costs, and a Staff Immigration Team with tax compensation scheme for international candidates.
• Opportunity to work in a dynamic, ambitious university with an international network.