Postdoc: Tin Droplet Dynamics & Splash Control

1000scholars; Amsterdam; On-site; EUR 46,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

ARCNL - Advanced Research Center for Nanolithography in Amsterdam, Netherlands, invites applications for a postdoctoral position focused on controlling splashing and debris from solidifying tin droplets. The project sits at the interface of fluid mechanics, phase-change physics and industrial EUV applications, with close industry collaboration.

You will perform precision experiments, high‑speed imaging, and data analysis to build predictive models of droplet solidification and debris formation

Qualifications

• PhD in Applied Physics, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or closely related field.
• Strong experimental background and ability to design, build, and improve laboratory experiments.
• Experience in fluid dynamics, droplet impact, multiphase flow, heat transfer, phase change, high‑speed imaging, vacuum systems, optical diagnostics, or surface science.
• Experience with Python for data analysis.
• Experience with droplet generation, thermal diagnostics, image processing, or automated experimental control is advantageous but not required.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills in English and collaborative mindset.
• Motivation to own the project from experimental design to publication.

Responsibilities

• Conduct experiments on molten tin droplet impacts under controlled ambient pressure and temperature.
• Perform synchronized high‑speed side‑ and bottom‑view imaging.
• Quantify droplet deformation, contact‑line motion, solidification dynamics, and debris formation.
• Develop regime maps for spreading, sticking, rebound, freezing, peeling, and fragmentation.
• Collaborate with TU/e, UvA and industrial partners to translate results into design principles for low‑debris surfaces in EUV source environments.
• Contribute to publications and disseminate results within the research community.

Skills

Fluid dynamics

Droplet impact

Multiphase flow

Heat transfer

Phase change

High-speed imaging

Vacuum systems

Optical diagnostics

Surface science

Python

Education

PhD in Applied Physics

Tools

High-speed cameras

Image analysis tools

Vacuum equipment

Job description

ARCNL - Advanced Research Center for Nanolithography in Amsterdam, Netherlands, invites applications for a postdoctoral position focused on controlling splashing and debris from solidifying tin droplets. The project sits at the interface of fluid mechanics, phase-change physics and industrial EUV applications, with close industry collaboration.

You will perform precision experiments, high‑speed imaging, and data analysis to build predictive models of droplet solidification and debris formation