Key Skills

Job Description

Introduction We invite applications for a fully funded PhD position in the fields of diagnostics, electrochemistry, and mechanical engineering. This position is part of the funded project EcoIron of Prof. Y. Tang by a European Research Council (ERC) Starting grant (https://cordis.europa.eu/project/id/101221061). Job Description Low-temperature electrolysis (/electrodeposition) converting iron oxide/ore into metallic iron has received increasing attention as it offers a truly zero-emission ironmaking for applications of green steel production and iron-based energy storage. One problem, fundamental understanding of metal electrodeposition is largely lacking. Knowledge gaps remain on the exact mechanisms of conversion from solid oxides to metallic iron, as well as the exact physics and operation parameters controlling the quality and morphology of iron deposits. This ERC-stg project aims to leverage our state-of-the-art scientific understanding via filling these knowledge gaps. Within this ERC-stg project, this PhD research focus on using operando diagnostics (e.g. neutron and X-ray imaging) to unveil the hidden knowledge that cannot be gained solely by electrochemistry measurements (e.g. CA, CV, EIS) and material characterization (e.g., SEM, EDX, XRD). Job Requirements We are looking for motivated and curious PhD candidate with the following qualifications: A master’s degree (or an equivalent university degree) in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, or a related discipline Solid background in operando diagnostics, preferably for electrochemical systems A research-oriented attitude, curiosity Experience at large-scale facilities (e.g. synchrotron and neutron source) is a plus. Ability to work in an interdisciplinary team and subject Motivated to develop your teaching skills and coach students Fluent in spoken and written English (C1 level). Conditions of Employment A meaningful job in a dynamic and ambitious university, in an interdisciplinary setting and within an international network. You will work on a beautiful, green campus within walking distance of the central train station. In Addition, We Offer You Full-time employment for four years, with an intermediate assessment after nine months. You will spend a minimum of 10% of your four-year employment on teaching tasks, with a maximum of 15% per year of your employment. Salary and benefits (such as a pension scheme, paid pregnancy and maternity leave, partially paid parental leave) in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, scale P (min. € 3,204 - max. € 4,051 gross base salary per month (full-time)). In addition to your base salary, you will receive an 8% holiday allowance and an 8.3% year-end bonus, both calculated based on your annual gross base salary. Generous leave options: a standard 29 days (based on a 38 hour working week) per year that you can increase to 41 days by working two hours more per week (flexible working hours). This is prorated if you work part-time. As a TU/e employee, you participate in the ABP pension scheme, providing retirement pension and pension benefits for surviving dependents and occupational disability. TU/e pays 70% of the pension premium, while employees contribute the remaining 30%. High-quality training programs and other support to grow into a self-aware, autonomous scientific researcher. At TU/e we challenge you to take charge of your own learning process. An excellent technical infrastructure, and on-campus children's day care. Unlimited access to the modern on‑campus TU/e Student Sports Center at an exceptionally affordable rate. We support your wellbeing with free 24/7 access to OpenUp, providing you and your family with mental health support, expert guidance, and online training. An allowance for commuting, working from home and internet costs. A Staff Immigration Team and a tax compensation scheme (the Expat Scheme) for international candidates. On our website you can discover even more information about our conditions of employment. Build on your career at TU/e! About Us We are a leading international university where scientific curiosity meets a hands-on mindset. We work in an open and collaborative way with high-tech industries to tackle complex societal challenges. Our responsible and respectful approach ensures impact — today and in the future. TU/e is home to over 13,000 students and more than 7,000 staff, forming a diverse and vibrant academic community. Our university is located in Brainport Eindhoven — a world‑leading tech region with more than 7,000 high‑tech companies and strong R&D activity. Known for breakthroughs in AI, photonics, semiconductors and advanced manufacturing, Brainport is a place where technology serves people and society. Learn more about the Brainport region here. The Department of Mechanical Engineering department conducts world-class research aligned with the technological interests of the high-tech industry in the Netherlands, with a focus on the Brainport region. Our goal is to produce engineers who are both scientifically educated and application-driven by providing a balanced education and research program that combines fundamental and application aspects. We equip our graduates with practical and theoretical expertise, preparing them optimally for future challenges. Information Do you recognize yourself in this profile? Do not hesitate to apply directly through our web platform. Visit our website for more information about the application process. Curious to hear more about what it’s like as a PhD candidate at TU/e? Please view the video. Are you inspired and would like to know more about working at TU/e? Please visit our career page. #EUfunded This is an EU funded project, named EcoIron, with project number 101221061, within program HE / ERC. Application We invite you to submit a complete application by using the apply button. The application should include a: Cover letter in which you describe your motivation and qualifications for the position. Curriculum vitae, including a list of your publications and the contact information of three references. Kindly note that we may reach out to references at any stage of the recruitment process. We recommend notifying your references upon submitting your application. Ensure that you submit all the requested application documents. We give priority to complete applications. We look forward to receiving your application and will screen it as soon as possible. The vacancy will remain open until the position is filled. Please note You can apply online. We will not process applications sent by email and/or post. A pre-employment screening (e.g. knowledge security check) can be part of the selection procedure. For more information on the knowledge security check, please consult the National Knowledge Security Guidelines. Please do not contact us for unsolicited services.

Core Responsibilities

Conduct PhD research using operando diagnostics, including neutron and X-ray imaging, to investigate iron electrodeposition and the conversion of iron oxides into metallic iron. Help uncover the mechanisms and operating conditions that determine the quality and morphology of iron deposits, while undertaking teaching duties.

Requirements

Applicants must have a master’s degree or equivalent in chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, applied physics, or a related discipline, along with a strong background in operando diagnostics, preferably for electrochemical systems. The role calls for research curiosity, interdisciplinary teamwork, willingness to develop teaching and coaching skills, and fluent spoken and written English at C1 level; experience at synchrotron or neutron facilities is an advantage.

Benefits

• Pension Scheme
• Paid Pregnancy And Maternity Leave
• Partially Paid Parental Leave
• Holiday Allowance
• Year-End Bonus
• Generous Annual Leave
• Training And Professional Development
• On-Campus Childcare
• Access To On-Campus Sports Facilities
• Mental Health Support
• Commuting Allowance
• Work-From-Home Allowance
• Internet Cost Allowance
• Tax Compensation Scheme For International Candidates