Development of americium-based radioisotopes power sources for space missions

Americium-241 is currently the preferred choice for the power source of radioisotope thermoelectric generators (RTGs) and radioisotope heater units (RHUs) in Europe, as it can be produced at an acceptable cost, and the extraction and purifications technologies for its production are already mature. Various forms of the source are considered for RTGs and RHUs, notably uranium-stabilised americium oxide ceramics. However, the fundamental knowledge on this type of materials is still limited. Moreover, the neptunium-237 content of the source will build up over time as it is a daughter product of 241-americium. For a thorough safety assessment of this power source and to help the synthesis process, more insights into the complex chemistry of the americium-uranium-neptunium-oxygen system are required.

The goal of the PhD project will be to improve the understanding of this complex system. To achieve this, the candidate will perform research combining experimental activities and thermodynamic modelling. Some of the key tasks to be performed will be:

- the synthesis of relevant compositions

- the structural and thermodynamic characterization of the prepared materials

- the development of a thermodynamic model of the americium-uranium-neptunium-oxygen system using the CALPHAD method.

- Using the latter model, thermodynamic equilibria calculations based on Gibbs energy minimization will be performed to predict behaviour with respect to oxygen potential and temperature.

We are looking for an outstanding candidate with a completed Master’s degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science or a related field. Candidate should have an affinity for multidisciplinary fields of research and a hands-on attitude towards experimental work. Computer skills in thermodynamic modelling are also highly desirable. We expect creativity, flexibility and ability to co-operate within an interdisciplinary research group. Excellent communication skills, including good written and spoken English, as well as the ability to conduct independent scientific work are required. The candidate will be based for 2 years at the TU Delft, and for 2 consecutive years at the Joint Research Centre (JRC) of the European Commission located in Karlsruhe (Germany) to perform experimental work. Delft University of Technology is a bilingual organisation; fluency in English is essential.

The selected candidate will be employed by TU Delft for a period of 24 months and by JRC for a period of 24 consecutive months.

TU Delft:

The TU Delft offers a customizable compensation package, a discount for health insurance and sport memberships, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged. An International Children’s Centre offers child care and an international primary school. Dual Career Services offers support to accompanying partners. Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities.

As a PhD candidate you will be enrolled in the TU Delft Graduate School. The TU Delft Graduate School provides an inspiring research environment; an excellent team of supervisors, academic staff and a mentor; and a Doctoral Education Programme aimed at developing your transferable, discipline-related and research skills. Please visit http://graduateschool.tudelft.nl/ for more information.

JRC:

The PhD candidate will get a grantholder-20 (GH20) contract from the European Commission covering a period of 2 consecutive years. For rules of the GH20 contract, please consult https://joint-research-centre.ec.europa.eu/system/files/2014-08/jrc_grantholder_rules.pdf.

Eligibility criteria for GH20:

Candidates should, prior to the start of the employment contract with the JRC:

- have the nationality of a Member State of the EU or a country associated to the Research Framework Programmes or being resident in a EU Member State since at least five years.

Candidates who are already enrolled in the doctoral study program with the TU Delft for fewer than 12 months can also be considered eligible.

Delft University of Technology is built on strong foundations. As creators of the world-famous Dutch waterworks and pioneers in biotech, TU Delft is a top international university combining science, engineering and design. It delivers world class results in education, research and innovation to address challenges in the areas of energy, climate, mobility, health and digital society. For generations, our engineers have proven to be entrepreneurial problem-solvers, both in business and in a social context. At TU Delft we embrace diversity and aim to be as inclusive as possible (see our Code of Conduct). Together, we imagine, invent and create solutions using technology to have a positive impact on a global scale. Challenge. Change. Impact!

The department of Radiation Science & Technology has unique expertise in using ionizing radiation such as positrons and neutrons for research and education. We have direct access to our 2.3 MW nuclear research reactor equipped with advanced beam-line instruments, irradiation facilities and radiological laboratories, and to the Holland Particle Therapy Center including the proton beam research bunker. Our research focuses on materials science with emphasis on energy conversion and storage, health technology for imaging and diagnostics, radionuclide therapy and proton therapy. Innovative and sustainable nuclear energy is part of our portfolio as well. The department provides education to students in the fields of physics, chemistry and biomedical sciences. It counts about 20 PI’s, 20 support staff and 70 PhD students and postdocs.

The selection of the candidate will be done in two phases, i.e. in a first round by the TU Delft, and in a second round by the JRC. The first round of selection will be based on CV and motivation letter. The second round of selection will be done via an interview.    

To apply, please upload a CV, along with a motivation letter, and a copy of your university degree by 20 April 2024. The application will be received by Dr Anna L. Smith, associate professor, [email protected]