Summary
TU Delft’s Faculty of Applied Sciences invites applications for a 2-year Postdoc position focusing on corrosion chemistry in chloride-based molten salt reactors (MSRs). The role combines laboratory experimentation, post-test materials characterization, electrochemical studies, and modelling to improve understanding of salt–material interactions and develop corrosion mitigation strategies. The position involves collaboration with the PRONTO project and the MSR startup Thorizon, as well as supervision of bachelor and master students.
Designation
Postdoctoral Researcher (Postdoc) – Corrosion Chemistry in Molten Salt Reactors
Quick Facts
| Employer | TU Delft, Faculty of Applied Sciences |
|---|---|
| Position type | Temporary, full-time (36–40 hours per week) |
| Contract duration | 2 years |
| Location | Delft, Netherlands |
| Research area | Corrosion chemistry, molten salt reactors, materials science, electrochemistry |
| Salary & benefits | According to the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities; pension via ABP and other benefits |
| Application deadline | 14 October 2026 |
Research Area
The project targets the corrosion chemistry of chloride-based molten salts interacting with candidate cladding and structural materials for Generation IV molten salt reactors. Work includes static and dynamic corrosion tests, electrochemical experiments, salt and sample post-examination (SEM, X-ray & neutron diffraction, calorimetry, INAA), and modelling/simulation of corrosion processes.
Location
Delft University of Technology (TU Delft), Faculty of Applied Sciences — Delft, Netherlands. International applicants are welcome; support is provided through TU Delft’s Coming to Delft Service and a Dual Career Programme for partners.
Eligibility / Qualification
- Required: PhD in Nuclear Materials Chemistry, Materials Science, Applied Science, or a closely related discipline.
- Proven interest in multidisciplinary research and hands-on experimental laboratory work.
- Good command of written and spoken English; TU Delft is bilingual and English fluency is essential.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively within an interdisciplinary team; good communication skills.
- Desirable: Experience with electrochemistry, materials characterisation techniques, and computational modelling/simulation.
Scholarship Description
This Postdoc position aims to deepen understanding of corrosion mechanisms in chloride-based molten salts and to develop mitigation strategies for structural materials used in MSRs. Key responsibilities include:
- Designing and executing static and dynamic corrosion experiments on selected cladding candidates.
- Planning and performing electrochemical measurements relevant to molten salts.
- Conducting post-test analyses of salts and materials using SEM, X-ray and neutron diffraction, calorimetry, INAA, and related methods.
- Collaborating with industrial partner Thorizon and contributing to the PRONTO (RVO) project activities.
- Supervising bachelor and master students and participating in educational activities.
Conditions of employment include a competitive benefits package in line with Dutch university regulations, flexible working, parental leave provisions, training opportunities, and relocation assistance where needed.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online via the TU Delft vacancy page. Prepare the following documents before applying:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Motivational letter addressed to Dr Anna L. Smith
Submit your application through the online application button on the vacancy page. TU Delft will not process applications sent by email or post. As part of recruitment, a knowledge security risk assessment may be conducted at later stages of the selection process.
For questions about the vacancy or selection procedure, contact:
Dr Anna L. Smith
Email: a.l.smith@tudelft.nl
Last Date to Apply
14 October 2026
Apply Link
Apply for the Postdoc Corrosion Chemistry in Molten Salt Reactors at TU Delft
