PhD: Hydrogen-Embrittlement in Circular Steels (4-Year)

Delft University of Technology (TU Delft); Netherlands; On-site; EUR 38,000 - 49,000; Full time

Job summary

Delft University of Technology (TU Delft) invites applications for a PhD researcher to investigate hydrogen-induced degradation in circular steels within the CIRHY project. You will combine 3D microstructural characterization with in-situ hydrogen testing to understand embrittlement and fracture mechanisms, aiming to enable safer hydrogen infrastructure materials.

The position is part of a 6-year research program, conducted in collaboration with industry partners, and focuses on advanced

Qualifications

• Master's degree in a closely related discipline (Materials Science and Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, Applied Physics, Metallurgy).
• Strong background in physical metallurgy, materials characterization, fracture mechanics, mechanical behaviour of materials, or related field.
• Experience with advanced characterization techniques such as SEM, EBSD, TEM, XRD, SIMS or related methods.
• Experience with mechanical testing, fracture mechanics, hydrogen embrittlement research or materials degradation is advantageous.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with ability to interpret experimental observations.
• Excellent academic track record demonstrated by study results and/or research experience.
• Enthusiasm for multidisciplinary academic and industrial collaboration.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.

Responsibilities

• Perform advanced 3D microstructural characterization of circular steels, focusing on segregation of tramp elements to precipitates, inclusions, interfaces, voids, and dislocations.
• Investigate the influence of hydrogen on deformation behaviour and ductility through in-situ hydrogen mechanical testing.
• Quantify hydrogen transport, trapping and interaction with microstructural defects using advanced characterization techniques.
• Conduct in-situ hydrogen fracture toughness testing to identify crack initiation and propagation mechanisms.
• Collaborate with researchers from TU Delft and partner institutions and industry.
• Contribute to scientific publications, conference presentations and dissemination activities within the M2i framework.

Skills

Physical metallurgy

Materials characterization

Fracture mechanics

Mechanical behaviour of materials

English communication

Academic track record

Multidisciplinary collaboration

Hydrogen embrittlement research

Education

Master's degree in Materials Science and Engineering

Tools

SEM

EBSD

TEM

XRD

SIMS

Job description

Delft University of Technology (TU Delft) invites applications for a PhD researcher to investigate hydrogen-induced degradation in circular steels within the CIRHY project. You will combine 3D microstructural characterization with in-situ hydrogen testing to understand embrittlement and fracture mechanisms, aiming to enable safer hydrogen infrastructure materials.

The position is part of a 6-year research program, conducted in collaboration with industry partners, and focuses on advanced