PhD on ‘Experiments and Diagnostics of Iron Electrodeposition’

1000scholars; Eindhoven; On-site; EUR 38,000 - 49,000; Full time

Job summary

TU/e invites applications for a fully funded PhD position in diagnostics, electrochemistry, and mechanical engineering as part of the EcoIron ERC Starting Grant. The project focuses on low-temperature electrolysis and metal electrodeposition, using operando diagnostics at large-scale facilities to uncover mechanistic knowledge.

The position builds skills in research, teaching, and collaboration. The successful candidate will join the Department of Mechanical Engineering at TU/e, located in

Qualifications

• Master's degree in a relevant engineering or physical science field.
• Solid background in operando diagnostics, preferably for electrochemical systems.
• A research-oriented attitude, curiosity
• Fluent in spoken and written English (C1 level)
• Experience at large-scale facilities is a plus.

Skills

Operando diagnostics

Research mindset

Interdisciplinary collaboration

Teaching skills

English proficiency

Curiosity

Large-scale facilities experience

Education

Master's in Chemical Engineering

Master's in Mechanical Engineering

Master's in Electrical Engineering

Master's in Applied Physics

Related discipline

Job description

Job description

We invite applications for a fully funded PhD position in the fields of diagnostics, electrochemistry, and mechanical engineering. This position is part of the funded project EcoIron of Prof. Y. Tang by a European Research Council (ERC) Starting grant (https://cordis.europa.eu/project/id/101221061).

Information Low-temperature electrolysis (/electrodeposition) converting iron oxide/ore into metallic iron has received increasing attention as it offers a truly zero-emission ironmaking for applications of green steel production and iron-based energy storage. One problem, fundamental understanding of metal electrodeposition is largely lacking. Knowledge gaps remain on the exact mechanisms of conversion from solid oxides to metallic iron, as well as the exact physics and operation parameters controlling the quality and morphology of iron deposits. This ERC‑stg project aims to leverage our state‑of‑the‑art scientific understanding via filling these knowledge gaps. Within this ERC‑stg project, this PhD research focus on using operando diagnostics (e.g. neutron and X‑ray imaging) to unveil the hidden knowledge that cannot be gained solely by electrochemistry measurements (e.g. CA, CV, EIS) and material characterization (e.g., SEM, EDX, XRD).

Requirements

• A master’s degree (or an equivalent university degree) in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, or a related discipline
• Solid background in operando diagnostics, preferably for electrochemical systems
• A research-oriented attitude, curiosity
• Experience at large-scale facilities (e.g. synchrotron and neutron source) is a plus.
• Ability to work in an interdisciplinary team and subject
• Motivated to develop your teaching skills and coach students
• Fluent in spoken and written English (C1 level).

Conditions of employment

Fixed‑term contract: 4 years.

A meaningful job in a dynamic and ambitious university, in an interdisciplinary setting and within an international network. You will work on a beautiful, green campus within walking distance of the central train station.

In addition, we offer you:

• Full‑time employment for four years, with an intermediate assessment after nine months. You will spend a minimum of 10% of your four‑year employment on teaching tasks, with a maximum of 15% per year of your employment.
• Salary and benefits (such as a pension scheme, paid pregnancy and maternity leave, partially paid parental leave) in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, scale P (min. € 3,204 - max. € 4,051 gross base salary per month (full-time)).
• In addition to your base salary, you will receive an 8% holiday allowance and an 8.3% year‑end bonus, both calculated based on your annual gross base salary.
• Generous leave options: a standard 29 days (based on a 38 hour working week) per year that you can increase to 41 days by working two hours more per week (flexible working hours). This is prorated if you work part‑time.
• As a TU/e employee, you participate in the ABP pension scheme, providing retirement pension and pension benefits for surviving dependents and occupational disability. TU/e pays 70% of the pension premium, while employees contribute the remaining 30%.
• High‑quality training programs and other support to grow into a self‑aware, autonomous scientific researcher. At TU/e we challenge you to take charge of your own learning process.
• An excellent technical infrastructure, and on‑campus children’s day care.
• Unlimited access to the modern on‑campus TU/e Student Sports Center at an exceptionally affordable rate.
• We support your wellbeing with free 24/7 access to OpenUp, providing you and your family with mental health support, expert guidance, and online training.
• An allowance for commuting, working from home and internet costs.
• A Staff Immigration Team and a tax compensation scheme (the Expat Scheme) for international candidates.
• On our website you can discover even more information about our conditions of employment. Build on your career at TU/e!

Employer

TU/e We are a leading international university where scientific curiosity meets a hands‑on mindset. We work in an open and collaborative way with high‑tech industries to tackle complex societal challenges. Our responsible and respectful approach ensures impact - today and in the future. TU/e is home to over 13,000 students and more than 7,000 staff, forming a diverse and vibrant academic community.

Our university is located in Brainport Eindhoven - a world‑leading tech region with more than 7,000 high‑tech companies and strong R&D activity. Known for breakthroughs in AI, photonics, semiconductors and advanced manufacturing, Brainport is a place where technology serves people and society. Learn more about the Brainport region here.

The Department of Mechanical Engineering department conducts world‑class research aligned with the technological interests of the high‑tech industry in the Netherlands, with a focus on the Brainport region. Our goal is to produce engineers who are both scientifically educated and application‑driven by providing a balanced education and research program that combines fundamental and application aspects. We equip our graduates with practical and theoretical expertise, preparing them optimally for future challenges.