PhD position - Development of Metallic Materials for Additive Manufacturing and Hydrogen-Related Applications

Your Job:

A hydrogen-based energy system represents a pathway towards decarbonization of many sectors. For example, for power generation stationary gas turbines are proposed to be running on varying levels of hydrogen with a path towards operation under 100% of hydrogen. The exposure to hydrogen above certain levels can lead to materials degradation that negatively affects their performance and service lifetime. This grand challenge requires significant efforts in both materials development and innovative manufacturing technologies. In this work, additive manufacturing (AM), specifically laser powder-bed fusion (LPBF) will be used to process newly developed metallic materials for hydrogen-fueled turbines.

As part of your doctoral research, you will develop and investigate advanced metallic materials processed by LPBF. You will work in teams in the areas of:

• Development of advanced and sustainable metallic materials for energy applications with a focus on hydrogen-fueled turbines
  
• Qualification of new alloys for LPBF processing
  
• Exploring the process-microstrucure-property correlations of AM-alloys
  
• Investigation of the hydrogen effects on materials behavior under different loading conditions
  
• Preparing scientific publications and project reports

Your Profile:

• Excellent university degree (Master or diploma) in materials engineering, materials science, mechanical engineering or other related fields
  
• Interest in advanced and sustainable metallic materials for the energy transition
  
• Strong background in materials engineering
  
• Knowledge of AM techniques, particularly LPBF
  
• Willingness to work on challenging research within the framework of scientific research projects
  
• Highly motivated, skillful at and enjoying experimental work
  
• Courses or practical experience in one or more of the following areas are considered a merit: Python programming, Matlab, mechanical testing of materials, metallographic preparation, electron microscopy
  
• Very good skills in written and spoken English
  
• The command of German would be an advantage
  
• Personal qualities such as dedication, motivation, and initiative are considered invaluable
  
• Excellent cooperation and communication skills and the ability to work independently

Our Offer:

We work on the very latest issues that impact our society and are offering you the chance to actively help in shaping the change! We offer ideal conditions for you to complete your doctoral degree:

• Outstanding scientific and technical infrastructure – ideal conditions for successfully completing a doctoral degree
  
• Doctoral degree conferred by RWTH Aachen University
  
• A highly motivated research group and interdisciplinary work environment at one of Europe’s largest research centers
  
• Continuous scientific mentoring by your scientific advisor
  
• A structured program of continuing education and networking opportunities specifically for doctoral researchers via JuDocS, the Jülich Center for Doctoral Researchers and Supervisors: https://www.fz-juelich.de/en/judocs
  
• Opportunities to participate in and contribute to (international) conferences and workshops
  
• Targeted services for international employees, e.g. through our International Advisory Service
  
• A position initially limited to 3 years to conduct your doctoral research
  
• Pay in line with 75% of pay group 13 of the Collective Agreement for the Public Service (TVöD-Bund and additionally 60 % of a monthly salary as special payment („Christmas bonus“).
  

Further information on doctoral degrees at Forschungszentrum Jülich including our other locations is available at: https://www.fz-juelich.de/gp/Careers_Docs

We welcome applications from people with diverse backgrounds, e.g. in terms of age, gender, disability, sexual orientation / identity, and social, ethnic and religious origin. A diverse and inclusive working environment with equal opportunities in which everyone can realize their potential is important to us.