Postdoc in Focusing Neutron Optics - DTU Energy

Danmarks Tekniske Universitet; Ørsted; On-site; DKK 520,000 - 680,000; Full time

Job summary

DTU is inviting applications for a postdoctoral project focused on designing and implementing a focusing neutron optics prototype, a nested Wolter condenser. The work will combine analytical design with computer simulations and experimental validation, in collaboration with CHEXS and ESS partners.

You will contribute to optimizing the mirror module, perform simulation-based design studies, and help advance neutron optical techniques for higher flux and real-time imaging in materials science

Qualifications

• Strong competences in solid state physics, astrophysics, materials science, or similar.
• Strong competences in neutron and/or X-ray optics including reflectometry.
• Experience with ray-tracing simulations (McStas or McXtrace) and/or wave propagation simulations (multislice).
• Experience with data analysis using Python.

Responsibilities

• Define the optimal design of the best-performing nested Wolter mirror optics module to be fabricated by CHEXS.
• Experimentally characterize components and the full mirror assembly with light, X-rays and neutrons in collaboration with the PhD student on the project.

Skills

Solid state physics

Neutron optics

X-ray optics

Ray-tracing simulations

Python data analysis

English communication

Independent and team work

Education

PhD degree

Tools

McStas

McXtrace

Multislice

Job description

Are you motivated by physics challenges that, if they are solved, may have a large impact on what science can be done in the future? Do you master the principles of optics? Are you motivated by solving experimental designs combining analytical approaches and computer simulations? Are you inspired by designing challenging neutron instruments?

This postdoc project is part of a research project funded by the Novo Nordisk Foundation, where we will develop and implement a focusing neutron optics prototype. Neutrons are inherently excellent probes for materials science and biotechnology; however, neutron scattering and imaging studies are strongly flux-limited. Our aim is to develop a neutron optics prototype, a so-called nested Wolter condenser, to increase the flux for a vast range of neutron methods by up to a factor 100. The optics is inspired by the X-ray thin film technology used in telescopes by NASA and ESA. In Europe, such X-ray optics is produced by DTU Space spin-out CHEXS. Our consortium, comprising DTU Energy, DTU Physics, CHEXS, the European Spallation Source (ESS), the Paul Scherrer Institute (PSI), and the Institute Laue Langevin (ILL), will transfer this technology to a focusing neutron condenser. The ultimate goal of the full research project is to demonstrate the functionality of the neutron focusing optics by imaging a real sample where the increased neutron flux is crucial, for instance, following in real time the fast charge-discharge cycles of a Li-ion battery.

Responsibilities and qualifications

This postdoc project will focus on defining the optimal design of the best-performing prototype nested Wolter mirror optics module to be fabricated by CHEXS. The experimental characterization of the components and the full mirror assembly with light, X-rays and neutrons will be performed in collaboration with the PhD student already working on the project.

• Strong competences within solid state physics, astrophysics, materials science, solid state chemistry or similar.
• Strong competences within neutron and/or X-ray optics including reflectometry.
• Experience with ray-tracing simulations (for instance McStas or McXtrace) and/or wave propagation simulations (for instance multislice).
• Experience with data analysis performed using Python or similar.
• Personal drive and self-motivated.
• Good communication skills in English, both written and spoken.
• Being able to work independently and in a team.

As a formal qualification, you must hold a PhD degree (or equivalent).

We offer

DTU is a leading technical university globally recognized for the excellence of its research, education, innovation and scientific advice. We offer a rewarding and challenging job in an international environment. We strive for academic excellence in an environment characterized by collegial respect and academic freedom tempered by responsibility.

Salary and terms of employment

The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. In addition, supplements can be negotiated in accordance with DTU’s salary structure for scientific staff: www.inside.dtu.dk/en/human-resources/during-employment/salary/salary-structures.

The period of employment is 2 years. Starting date is 1 January 2027 (or according to mutual agreement). The position is a full-time position.

Further information

Further information may be obtained from Professor Luise Theil Kuhn, [e-mail] or phone [phone], or Professor Henning Friis Poulsen, [e-mail].

All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, disability, race, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply.

As DTU works with research in critical technology, which is subject to special rules for security and export control, open-source background checks may be conducted on qualified candidates for the position.

You can read more about DTU Energy at https://www.energy.dtu.dk/ and DTU Physics at https://physics.dtu.dk/

If you are applying from abroad, you may find useful information on working in Denmark and at DTU at DTU – Moving to Denmark.

DTU – For the benefit of society since 1829

DTU is one of Europe's leading elite technical universities. Through research and education at an international top level, we create solutions to the major societal challenges of our time and help secure Europe's global leadership in sustainable technological development. Since Hans Christian Ørsted founded DTU almost 200 years ago, our mission has remained the same: We develop and create value through the natural and technical sciences for the benefit of society. DTU has 13,800 students, 1,600 PhD students, and 6,500 employees. We work in an international environment and have an inclusive, stimulating, and informal work culture. DTU has campuses in all parts of Denmark and in Greenland and collaborates with the best universities around the world.

DTU Energy

DTU Energy is focused on education, research, and development within functional materials, components, and systems for sustainable energy technologies. The technologies include fuel cells, electrolysis, power-to-x, batteries, and carbon capture. The research is based on strong competences in electrochemistry, atomic scale and multi-physics modelling, autonomous materials discovery, materials processing, and structural analyses. We also focus on educating engineering students at all levels, ranging from BSc, MSc, PhD to lifelong learning students. We have about 330 dedicated employees. Additional information about the department can be found on http://www.energy.dtu.dk.

DTU Physics

DTU Physics focuses on research, teaching, and innovation in experimental and theoretical physics with the overall aim to benefit society. We contribute to the transition to sustainable energy via research and innovation in catalysis, Power-to-X, and nuclear energy solutions. We design and develop new functional materials, contribute to advances in geosciences and life sciences, and we develop and exploit quantum physics and quantum technology.

Location

Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark

Apply Before

2026-10-05T21:59:00+00:00