Summary
The Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) is offering 3-year PhD research fellowships focused on advanced arc and friction stir welding processes for recycled aluminium. This position is part of the SFI FAST (Future Aluminium Structures) initiative, aimed at enabling the large-scale use of post-consumer scrap aluminium in high-value structural products.
Designation
PhD Research Fellow (Doctoral Research Fellowship)
Key Information
| Institution | NTNU – Norwegian University of Science and Technology |
| Department | Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering |
| Location | Trondheim, Norway |
| Salary | NOK 580,000 per annum |
| Duration | 3 Years |
| Application Deadline | November 2, 2026 |
Research Area
The research focuses on the welding and joining of recycled aluminium. Specific topics include:
- Influence of impurities on weldability and microstructure.
- Arc welding (GTAW and GMAW) and Friction Stir Welding (FSW).
- Thermodynamic modeling of solidification and precipitation.
- Advanced characterization using SEM, FIB, EBSD, and Laser Confocal Microscopy.
- Development of weldability tests for aluminium alloys.
Location
Trondheim, Norway
Eligibility/Qualification
- Education: A relevant Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Engineering, Metallurgical Engineering, or equivalent. The degree must include an independent project (Master’s thesis) of at least 30 ECTS.
- Grades: An average grade of B or better compared to NTNU’s grading scale.
- Technical Background: Academically relevant experience in fusion and solid-state welding, welding metallurgy, and material characterization.
- Skills: Excellent written and oral English language skills.
- Preferred: Knowledge of robotic welding, thermomechanical modeling, and Scandinavian language skills.
Scholarship Description
The PhD candidate will be embedded in the welding and joining research activities of SFI FAST, working closely with SINTEF and international industrial partners. The position offers a gross salary of approximately NOK 580,000 per year, with a 2% statutory contribution to the State Pension Fund. The fellowship is designed to provide comprehensive training in advanced manufacturing technologies and circular economy principles within the aluminium value chain.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted electronically via the Jobbnorge portal. The following documents must be attached in English:
- CV and transcripts/diplomas for Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees.
- A copy of the Master’s thesis (or a draft if not yet completed).
- A project outline (maximum 1500 words/4 pages) describing research questions and methodological design.
- A short letter of motivation (maximum 400 words).
- Contact information for three referees including recommendation letters.
- Documentation of any relevant publications or research work.
Last Date for Apply
November 2, 2026
