"Postdoc Research Corrosion of Light-alloys for Research Reactor Applications"

Join TU Delft in advancing the understanding of materials ageing in research reactors. As a Postdoctoral Researcher, you will study how light alloys corrode under simulated operating conditions and assess strategies to prevent degradation. Your work, carried out in collaboration with NRG and European partners in the MAGIC-RR project, will support the safe, long-term performance of research reactor materials.

Research reactors (RRs) are essential to the progress of nuclear science and technology. Although they are not used for power generation, they enable critical activities such as isotope production, materials testing, and education. Many of these reactors have been operating for decades, and the ageing of their structural materials is increasingly affecting performance and safety. However, our understanding of the degradation mechanisms, particularly corrosion and embrittlement in reactor environments, remains incomplete, and key mechanical properties are scarce. Without reliable experimental data, our ability to develop predictive models for the properties and long-term performance of reactor materials is also limited.

This position is part of the MAGIC-RR project (Materials Ageing and Degradation in Research Reactors), a European collaboration aimed at improving the scientific basis for predicting and mitigating materials ageing in research reactors. The project unites leading universities, research institutes, and reactor operators to generate critical materials data, refine degradation models, and design mitigation strategies that support the safe and sustainable operation of research reactors across Europe.

As a postdoc researcher at TU Delft, you will focus on improving the understanding of corrosion behaviour of light alloys under operating conditions representative of research reactors. You will:

• Investigate corrosion mechanism in aqueous environment using electrochemical and surface analysis techniques.
• Adapt and design experimental setups to mimic better reactor conditions. Creativity and initiative in modifying test approaches are strongly encouraged.
• Evaluate the performance and effectiveness of corrosion prevention and mitigation strategies developed by NRG.
• Prepare technical reports describing corrosion mechanisms and mitigation results as key project deliverables.
• Actively participate in MAGIC-RR consortium meetings and collaborate closely with NRG and other partners.
• Contribute to publications and mentoring of MSc students within the MSE department.

Corrosion Technology and Electrochemistry group (CTE): You will be part of the Corrosion Technology and Electrochemistry (CTE) group within the department Materials Science and Engineering (MSE) at TU Delft, where research focuses on understanding and controlling local corrosion processes to enhance the durability and sustainability of materials. The CTE team aims to gain fundamental insights into corrosion mechanisms and promote best practices in corrosion control for the socio-economic benefit of society, the preservation of resources, and the protection of the environment. The research bridges fundamental electrochemistry with applied materials science, contributing to advances in energy storage, cultural heritage, and biomaterials.

You will have access to well-equipped laboratories with advanced facilities for electrochemical analysis and surface characterization. At CTE, you’ll find an open and collaborative environment where interdisciplinary teamwork, curiosity, and scientific excellence are valued. We work closely across disciplines such as metallurgy, surface science, and electrochemistry, sharing a drive to grow together and make a meaningful impact through innovative research.

Requirements: We seek an outstanding experimental researcher who’s motivated to work in an international, multidisciplinary, and academic-industrial team. We are looking for an enthusiastic and inquisitive researcher who wants to develop their know-how and experience in a challenging academic environment.

Furthermore, you need to have:

• A PhD in corrosion science, materials science and engineering, metallurgical, chemical, or another closely related discipline with a strong focus on materials degradation and electrochemical behaviour.
• Proven and extensive experience in corrosion research of light metal alloys and mitigation strategies, including conventional electrochemical analyses such as PDP and EIS.
• Experience optionally on surface analysis methods (e.g., SEM, XRD, XPS, AFM).
• Critical and creative approach to the research, with good problem-solving skills.
• Proven experience writing scientific publications and preparing communications for scientific and technical meetings with project partners.
• Have proven excellent written and spoken English skills.