PhD Position - Structurally and microstructurally investigating mixed oxide (MOX) spent nuclear fuel materials under conditions relevant for geological disposal

Your Job:

• Synthesis and characterization of ceramic uranium oxide-based nuclear fuel materials and model systems comparable to commercial grades
  
• Application of microstructural and chemical analysis techniques from the macro- to nano-scale to assess corrosion mechanisms in fresh and irradiated light water reactor (LWR) and MOX fuels
  
• Examining solid state chemical and physical processes that may affect stability (radionuclide release or retention) in MOX spent nuclear fuel materials and model systems
  
• Application of state-of-the-art synchrotron radiation facility techniques through requests for beamtime
  
• Work within the nuclear laboratories of Forschungszentrum Juelich GmbH, Juelich, Germany and the Belgium Nuclear Research Centre (SCK CEN), Mol, Belgium
  
• Collaboration and information exchange with Transient project partners and members
  
• Analyses and processing of diffraction and microstructural measurement data
  
• Dissemination of results at scientific conferences and through peer reviewed publications

Your Profile:

• Master’s degree in Materials Sciences, Chemistry, Physics, Radiochemistry or a related discipline
  
• Experience or interest in nuclear energy, waste management, nuclear fuel or spent nuclear fuel materials
  
• Practical experience working in materials, radiochemical, solid-state physical or chemical laboratories
  
• Experience with microstructural analysis techniques such as X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy is considered an advantage
  
• Knowledge of spent nuclear fuel systems, actinide and radiochemistry is desirable
  
• The ability to work in an international multidisciplinary team, and to work for extended periods of time in the partner institute abroad
  
• Excellent English communication and writing skills

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:

• Working within the state-of-the-art nuclear laboratories of Forschungszentrum Jülich. Institute of Nuclear Waste Management and the Belgien Nuclear Research Centre
  
• Mentoring and training by global experts in nuclear fuel materials chemistry and condensed matter pyhsics
  
• The possibility to develop your own independent scientific program within the topic
  
• Working at the interface of applied and fundamental science towards beneficiating spent nuclear fuel disposal and the nuclear fuel cycle
  
• Further development of your personal strengths, e.g. through an extensive range of training courses; 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
  
• Confirmed funded opportunities to attend international conferences and training events
  
• Doctoral degree conferred by RWTH Aachen University (when requirements are met)
  
• Targeted services for international employees, e.g. through our International Advisory Service
  

In addition to exciting tasks and a collaborative working atmosphere at Jülich, we have a lot more to offer: https://go.fzj.de/benefits

The position is limited until 31.05.2027, with the possibility of a longer-term perspective. Pay in line with 60% 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.