PhD Position in Aluminium Extrusion with High Recycled Content
Join NTNU’s SFI FAST Centre to develop sustainable aluminium extrusion processes using post-consumer scrap.
Best for:Best for mechanical/materials engineers with expertise in metal forming, FEA modelling, and a passion for circular economy solutions in manufacturing.
Overview
This PhD position at NTNU’s Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering focuses on advancing aluminium extrusion techniques for high-recycled-content profiles. Embedded in the SFI FAST Centre—a national research hub for aluminium innovation—the candidate will investigate process-microstructure-property relationships, weld integrity, and die design. The work spans experimental trials, numerical simulations, and industrial collaborations with partners like Hydro, Benteler Automotive, and Renault. The successful applicant will contribute to a cotutelle PhD programme with the University of Bologna, Italy, and drive research towards scalable sustainability in automotive-grade aluminium components.
What you'll do
- Develop and validate numerical forming simulations to predict effects of recycled aluminium on extrusion quality
- Conduct experimental extrusion trials and mechanical/microstructural characterization tests on PCS-based profiles
- Investigate thermal-mechanical processing impacts on subsequent forming processes and end-product quality
- Integrate quenching sequences and microstructure evolution into process models
- Collaborate with industrial partners to validate research outcomes in real-world applications
- Publish findings in peer-reviewed journals and present at international conferences
- Mentor and supervise master’s students within the SFI FAST research group
Requirements
Degree required: Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Materials Science, or equivalent, including a major independent project (minimum 30 ECTS)
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; no specific test score required but must demonstrate proficiency for academic work
Instruction: English
- Proven academic background in metal forming or aluminium processing
- Experience with continuum-based modelling using FEA software
- Strong written and oral English proficiency
- Ability to conduct independent research and systematic project work
- Must meet NTNU’s admission criteria for the Doctoral Programme in Engineering
- Master’s degree must be obtained before starting the position (master’s students can apply)
- Average grade equivalent to B or better on NTNU’s grading scale (or equivalent academic foundation)
- No nationality/residency restrictions mentioned
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-11-01
Applicants must submit their application through NTNU’s official vacancy portal. Required documents include a CV, cover letter, certified transcripts, proof of English proficiency (if applicable), and a list of publications or academic works. Two references must also be provided. The application should be submitted as one PDF file.
- CV
- Cover letter
- Certified transcripts (BSc + MSc)
- Proof of English proficiency (if not native)
- List of publications or academic works
- Two reference letters
Contact
First Last· Recruitment contact for PhD positions
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