11 PhD positions in Excellence & Sustainability Programme, Mechanics of Materials, Eindhoven University of Technology Eindhoven University of Technology in Netherlands

The section Mechanics of Materials (MoM) at the Department of Mechanical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e), is offering 11 PhD positions as part of its Excellence & Sustainability Programme. This initiative aims to advance high-tech applications and state-of-the-art modelling and experimentation of advanced sustainable materials across multiple scales. The MoM section is internationally recognized for its research in experimental analysis, theoretical understanding, and predictive modelling of complex thermo-mechanical behaviour in engineering materials, focusing on phenomena such as plasticity, damage, and fracture. The research leverages an integrated numerical-experimental approach and benefits from a state-of-the-art computing infrastructure.

The PhD projects are embedded in four major programmes:

• Green Steels: Addressing the sustainability transition in the Dutch steel sector, this programme investigates how new processing routes affect the microstructure and properties of green steels, aiming for CO2 neutrality by 2050.
• Physics-Based Design of Hydrogen-Resistant Steels: Tackling the challenge of hydrogen embrittlement in steel, this programme uses materials physics, computational modelling, and targeted experiments to develop digital twin frameworks for virtual assessment and optimization of steel microstructures, crucial for the hydrogen economy.
• Thermal Interfaces at Cryogenic Conditions: Developing multiscale models to understand how microstructural changes and contact conditions at cryogenic temperatures influence thermal and mechanical properties, supporting innovation in quantum computing, medical imaging, and high-tech manufacturing.
• Wafer Handling: Investigating the mechanical interaction and surface quality of silicon wafers under contact loading, essential for reliable lithographic processes in electronic device fabrication.

All projects involve close collaboration with industry partners such as SKF, Tata Steel, Philips, Alleima, APS, Thermo Fisher Scientific, ASML, AAE, MI-Partners, and VDL. Supervisors for the projects include Ron Peerlings, Marc Geers, Karo Sedighiani, Olaf van der Sluis, and Johan Hoefnagels.

Successful candidates will join a dynamic, interdisciplinary, and international research environment, with access to excellent technical infrastructure, training programs, and support for personal and professional development. The positions are fully funded for four years, with competitive salary and benefits, including pension, paid leave, bonuses, and allowances for commuting and home working. International candidates benefit from a dedicated Staff Immigration Team and tax compensation scheme.

Applicants must have a MSc degree in a relevant field, excellent academic grades, and strong skills in mechanics of materials, continuum mechanics, or experimental mechanics. Additional expertise in materials science, metallurgy, mechanical testing, micromechanics, or structure-property relationships is advantageous. Fluency in English (C1 level) and motivation for interdisciplinary research and teaching are required.

Applications are accepted online until April 30, 2026, or until all positions are filled. The selection process includes an excellence assessment and, for shortlisted candidates, detailed project information and mutual consultation. Early applications are encouraged as positions may be filled before the deadline. For further information, visit the MoM section website or contact [email protected].