PhD position in the fatigue performance and weldability of next-generation structural steels

The steel industry is undergoing a major transformation to reduce its environmental impact. New production routes based on hydrogen direct reduced iron (DRI), electric arc furnaces (EAF), and the increased use of scrap are expected to play a key role in the decarbonization of the steel sector. However, important questions remain regarding the performance of these next-generation sustainable steels in fatigue-critical infrastructure and structural applications.

In this PhD project, you will investigate the fatigue performance and weldability of next-generation structural steels, with the aim of enabling their safe application in infrastructure and construction. Specifically, the research will examine how "greener" steel production routes and varying levels of scrap content affect the fatigue behaviour and the weldability of these sustainable structural steels. You will combine experimental testing with advanced numerical modelling to evaluate both the base material and welded joints. The project will also assess whether existing fatigue design methods developed for conventional steels remain applicable to these next-generation sustainable steels.

As a PhD candidate, you will be part of the Grow with Green Steel (Groeien met Groen Staal) programme and work within a multidisciplinary consortium of leading universities, research institutes, and industrial partners. This unique collaboration offers an excellent opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research while working closely with stakeholders across the steel value chain. The outcomes of the project will support the safe implementation of the next-generation structural steels in fatigue-critical infrastructure and structural applications. Furthermore, the research will help reduce technical uncertainties associated with the transition towards a more sustainable and circular steel industry.

The Steel & Composites section at TU Delft conducts research on the behaviour, design, and assessment of steel and composite structures under both static and fatigue loading. Its research is built on a strong combination of experimental and numerical approaches, ranging from material characterization and component testing to full-scale structural demonstrators supported by advanced modelling techniques. The section is well positioned to address challenges related to sustainable and resilient infrastructure, contributing to the transition towards a circular and climate-neutral built environment.

Job requirements

• You hold an MSc degree in Civil/Structural Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field.
• You have a background in structural performance of steel. Additonal knowledge of its fatigue and welding behaviour is an advantage.
• You enjoy combining experimental work in a structural lab environmnent, with numerical and analytical approaches.
• You communicate effectively in English and enjoy collaborating with academic and industrial partners.
• You are comfortable working in a multidisciplinary and international environment.

TU Delft (Delft University of Technology)

Working at TU Delft means contributing to solutions that really make a difference.

For over 180 years, we have been training engineers who make an impact worldwide in companies, government bodies, or as entrepreneurs. Our alumni turn knowledge into concrete solutions for the challenges of today and tomorrow. These challenges are changing rapidly. That is why we focus on themes such as energy, climate, digitalisation, artificial intelligence (AI), and smart mobility every day. Our education and research are directly aligned with what society needs now and in the future.

At TU Delft, our people make the difference. With their knowledge and curiosity, our staff provide a high-quality education and conduct pioneering research that extends beyond the campus. You will have the opportunity to take the initiative, work with others, and grow as a professional. Working at TU Delft means join an international community of professionals and students. Together, we create knowledge, innovations, and solutions that help move the world forward.

Faculty of Civil Engineering and Geosciences

The Faculty of Civil Engineering & Geosciences (CEG) is committed to outstanding international research and education in the field of civil engineering, applied earth sciences, traffic and transport, water technology, and delta technology. Our research feeds into our educational programmes and covers societal challenges such as climate change, energy transition, resource availability, urbanisation and clean water. Our research projects are conducted in close cooperation with a wide range of research institutions. CEG is convinced of the importance of open science and supports its scientists in integrating open science in their research practice. The Faculty of CEG comprises 28 research groups in the following seven departments: Materials Mechanics Management & Design, Engineering Structures, Geoscience and Engineering, Geoscience and Remote Sensing, Transport & Planning, Hydraulic Engineering and Water Management.

Click here to go to the website of the Faculty of Civil Engineering & Geosciences.

Conditions of employment

Doctoral candidates will be offered a 4-year period of employment in principle, but in the form of 2 employment contracts. An initial 1,5 year contract with an official go/no go progress assessment within 15 months. Followed by an additional contract for the remaining 2,5 years assuming everything goes well and performance requirements are met.

Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, increasing from €3204 - €4051 gross per month, from the first year to the fourth year based on a fulltime contract (38 hours), plus 8% holiday allowance and an end-of-year bonus of 8.3%.

As a PhD candidate you will be enrolled in the TU Delft Graduate School. The TU Delft Graduate School provides an inspiring research environment with an excellent team of supervisors, academic staff and a mentor. The Doctoral Education Programme is aimed at developing your transferable, discipline-related and research skills.

The TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, discounts on health insurance, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged.

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

If you would like more information about this vacancy or the selection procedure, please contact Dr. Florentia Kavoura at F.Kavoura@tudelft.nl.

Application procedure

Are you interested in this vacancy? Please apply no later than 11 October 2026 via the application button and upload the following documents:

• CV
• Cover/motivation letter explaining your interest and your qualifications for this position, and how your skills match the requirements
• MSc degree
• 300 words abstract of your MSc thesis
• Two selected publications (if any)
• If the applicants are selected for an interview, they will be asked to provide contact details of at least two referees with their consent.

Doing a PhD at TU Delft requires English proficiency at a certain level to ensure that the candidate is able to communicate and interact well, participate in English-taught Doctoral Education courses, and write scientific articles and a final thesis. For more details please check the Graduate Schools Admission Requirements.

Please note:

If your MSc diploma and transcript are not in Dutch, English, French or German and you will be the selected candidate, the TU Delft will ask you to deliver a certified translation in case you will be appointed.

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 …