PhD Position in Hydrogen-Induced Degradation and Fracture of Circular Steels
Investigate hydrogen embrittlement mechanisms in advanced circular steels to enable safer hydrogen infrastructure.
Best for:Best for materials science PhD candidates with expertise in physical metallurgy, fracture mechanics, and advanced characterization techniques, eager to contribute to sustainable energy solutions through fundamental research.
Overview
This PhD position at TU Delft’s Extreme Materials and Mechanics Group focuses on understanding how hydrogen interacts with the complex microstructures of circular steels, causing degradation and failure—a critical barrier to hydrogen technology adoption. As part of the 6-year CIRHY project, the successful candidate will combine advanced microstructural characterization, in-situ hydrogen mechanical testing, and fracture mechanics experiments to uncover degradation mechanisms. The research aims to develop hydrogen-resistant circular steels for sustainable energy infrastructure, collaborating with industrial partners like Tata Steel. The role offers hands-on experience with cutting-edge techniques (SEM, EBSD, TEM, SIMS) and multidisciplinary teamwork in an international consortium.
What you'll do
- Perform advanced 3D microstructural characterization of circular steels, focusing on segregation patterns and defect interactions.
- Conduct in-situ hydrogen mechanical testing to analyze deformation behavior and ductility under hydrogen exposure.
- Quantify hydrogen transport, trapping, and interaction with microstructural defects using SEM, EBSD, TEM, and SIMS.
- Execute in-situ hydrogen fracture toughness experiments to identify crack initiation and propagation mechanisms.
- Collaborate with academic and industrial partners (Tata Steel, TU Delft, University of Groningen, etc.) on project deliverables.
- Contribute to scientific publications, conference presentations, and dissemination activities within the M2i framework.
Requirements
Degree required: Master's degree in Materials Science and Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, Applied Physics, Metallurgy, or a closely related discipline
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; proficiency required for scientific communication and thesis writing
Instruction: English
- Strong background in physical metallurgy or materials characterization
- Experience with advanced characterization techniques (SEM, EBSD, TEM, XRD, SIMS)
- Familiarity with mechanical testing and fracture mechanics (preferred but not mandatory)
- Analytical and problem-solving skills with a focus on experimental interpretation
- Excellent academic track record (demonstrated by study results or research experience)
- No nationality restrictions mentioned
- No residency or age limits specified
- No prior experience caps beyond academic qualifications
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-10-30
Apply via the TU Delft application portal by uploading a cover letter (max 1 page), CV, and copies of any publications. Applications sent by email or post will not be processed. The selection process includes interviews in November 2026.
- Cover letter describing motivation and qualifications
- CV
- Copies of journal/conference publications (if any)
Contact
Prof. Vera Popovich· Supervisor
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