Job offer

European Commission; Norway; On-site; NOK 450,000 - 550,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading university in Norway seeks a motivated PhD candidate for a 3-year position in molecular dynamics simulation focused on mineral processing. This role offers the opportunity to contribute to sustainable mineral processing research while pursuing a doctoral degree. Candidates should have a strong academic background and experience with molecular dynamics software. The position is full-time and based in Trondheim, a city known for its vibrant culture and quality of life.

Qualifications

• Background in Physics, Chemistry, Materials Science, or related fields.
• Strong academic record with a B grade or better.

Responsibilities

• Develop computational models and perform simulations.
• Publish research in high-impact journals.

Skills

Analytical Skills

Communication

Education

Master's Degree

Tools

LAMMPS

CP2k

VASP

Job description

NTNU Norwegian University of Science and Technology

Organization/Company: NTNU Norwegian University of Science and Technology

Department: Department of Geosciences

Research Field: Chemistry, Engineering, Computer Science

Profile: First Stage Researcher (R1)

Positions: PhD Positions

Country: Norway

Application Deadline: 20 Jul 2025 - 23:59 (Europe/Oslo)

Type of Contract: Temporary

Job Status: Full-time

Hours Per Week: 37.5

Funding: Not funded by an EU programme

Research Infrastructure: No

Offer Description

This is NTNU

NTNU is a broad-based university with a technical-scientific profile and a focus on professional education. Located in three cities with headquarters in Trondheim, NTNU has 9,000 employees and 43,000 students dedicated to creating knowledge for a better world.

More information about working at NTNU and the application process can be found on their website.

About the position

Motivated to pursue a doctorate and explore exciting career opportunities? As a PhD Candidate at NTNU, you will work towards your doctoral degree while gaining valuable experience for a career in academia and research. Your immediate supervisor will be the Head of Department.

The Department of Geosciences seeks a highly motivated candidate for a 3-year PhD position in molecular dynamics simulation focused on mineral processing. This role offers the chance to contribute to cutting-edge research on mineral behavior and interactions at the molecular level, crucial for sustainable mineral processing and environmentally friendly extraction of critical raw materials.

About the project

The successful candidate will be supervised by Professor Pshem Kowalczuk and Associate Professor David Dell'Angelo (University of Artois, France), integrating into the Mineral Processing Laboratory at NTNU. This lab provides insights into sustainable ore and mineral processing, playing a strategic role in advancing a greener, circular economy.

Duties of the position

1. Develop computational models and perform simulations to examine mineral behavior in sustainable processing.
2. Analyze and interpret simulation data to understand molecular mechanisms.
3. Collaborate with team members and external partners, integrating simulation with experimental findings.
4. Publish research in high-impact journals and present at conferences.
5. Complete doctoral education to obtain a PhD.

Required selection criteria

• Background in Physics, Chemistry, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Mineral Processing, or related fields.
• Experience with quantum mechanics, molecular dynamics, and multilevel molecular modeling techniques.
• Educational background equivalent to a five-year Norwegian degree (120 credits at master's level).
• Strong academic record, with a B grade or better on NTNU's scale; equivalent qualifications if graded differently.
• Meet admission requirements for the PhD in Engineering program.
• Proficiency with molecular dynamics software like LAMMPS, CP2k, or VASP, and related methodologies.
• Strong analytical skills for complex data interpretation.
• Excellent English communication skills, both written and verbal.

Application requirements

Include transcripts, CV, certificates, a draft or copy of your Master's thesis, motivation letter, project proposal (max 2 pages), publications, and contact info for three referees. If education was obtained abroad, provide documentation of scope and quality. Include joint work descriptions if applicable.

Additional information

Assessments emphasize education, experience, personal suitability, motivation, research ambitions, and potential. NTNU supports diverse academic contributions and adheres to responsible research assessment principles.

General information

A public list of applicants will be published unless justified otherwise. For questions, contact Senior Adviser HR, Eli Meistad, at [e-mail].

The city of Trondheim offers a rich cultural scene, modern amenities, and a high quality of life, making it an excellent place for research and personal growth.