TU Delft is offering a prestigious PhD position within the “Circularity as Opportunity: Engineering Hydrogen-Resistant Circular Steels (CIRHY)” project. This 6-year research and innovation programme focuses on developing next-generation circular steels capable of safely operating in hydrogen environments. The successful candidate will join the Extreme Materials and Mechanics Group to investigate how hydrogen interacts with complex microstructures to cause degradation and failure.
Key Position Details
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| University | TU Delft (Delft University of Technology) |
| Faculty | Mechanical Engineering |
| Designation | PhD Researcher |
| Research Area | Materials Science, Hydrogen Embrittlement, Fracture Mechanics |
| Location | Delft, Netherlands |
| Monthly Salary | €3,204 – €4,051 Gross |
| Application Deadline | October 30, 2026 |
Research Area
The research focuses on Hydrogen-Induced Degradation and Fracture in Circular Steels. The project aims to bridge the gap between steel circularity (which introduces microstructural complexities like tramp elements and inclusions) and the safe deployment of hydrogen technologies. You will use advanced 3D microstructural characterization, in-situ hydrogen mechanical testing, and fracture toughness experiments to identify the features controlling embrittlement.
Designation
PhD Researcher (Doctoral Candidate)
Location
Delft, Netherlands (TU Delft Campus, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering).
Eligibility / Qualification
To be considered for this PhD position, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Education: A Master’s degree in Materials Science and Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, Applied Physics, Metallurgy, or a closely related discipline.
- Technical Background: Strong knowledge of physical metallurgy, materials characterization, and fracture mechanics.
- Technical Skills: Experience with advanced characterization techniques such as SEM, EBSD, TEM, XRD, or SIMS is highly desirable.
- Analytical Skills: Strong problem-solving abilities and a track record of academic excellence.
- Language: Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.
Scholarship Description (Salary and Benefits)
The position is offered as a 4-year employment contract (initially 1.5 years with a go/no-go assessment for the remaining 2.5 years). Benefits include:
- Monthly Salary: Starting at €3,204 in the first year, increasing to €4,051 in the fourth year (based on a full-time 38-hour week).
- Allowances: 8% holiday allowance and an 8.3% end-of-year bonus.
- Professional Development: Enrollment in the TU Delft Graduate School for transferable and research skill development.
- Relocation Support: Assistance from the “Coming to Delft Service” and a Dual Career Programme for partners.
How to Apply
Interested candidates must apply through the TU Delft careers portal. You are required to upload the following documents:
- A Cover Letter (maximum 1 page) describing your motivation and specific qualifications.
- An updated CV.
- Copies of journal or conference publications (if applicable).
Applications should be addressed to Prof. Vera Popovich.
Last Date for Apply
The deadline for submission is October 30, 2026.
Apply Link
Candidates can submit their application directly through the TU Delft vacancy page: Apply Here
