Materials Science, Materials Engineering, Physics, Nuclear Engineering Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf (HZDR) in Germany

This postdoctoral position at Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf (HZDR) focuses on the irradiation tolerance of additively manufactured ferritic/martensitic steels for fusion applications. The research is situated within the Institute of Resource Ecology, which is dedicated to protecting humans and the environment from hazards associated with energy and raw material production. The Department of Structural Materials is leading this interdisciplinary project, aiming to evaluate whether additively manufactured variants of ferritic/martensitic steels, particularly the Eurofer alloy, can meet the demanding requirements for use in future fusion power plants.

The project involves simulating fusion-relevant damage mechanisms using ion irradiation with iron and helium ions, and experimentally replicating effects such as hardening, embrittlement, and swelling. The research will clarify how these effects depend on the microstructure induced by additive manufacturing processes.

Key tasks include designing, executing, and evaluating ion irradiation experiments, conducting post-irradiation investigations using transmission electron microscopy (TEM/STEM) and nanoindentation, analyzing the interaction between microstructure, irradiation damage, and mechanical properties, and coordinating supplementary mechanical testing and subcontracted experiments. The postdoc will also supervise a PhD student, document and publish results in peer-reviewed journals, and present findings at scientific conferences. Applicants should have a PhD in Materials Science, Materials Engineering, Physics, Nuclear Engineering, or a related field, with expertise in materials characterization, ion irradiation, and mechanical testing.

Experience with TEM/STEM, nanoindentation, fracture mechanics, and scientific software is highly desirable. The position offers access to state-of-the-art infrastructure, opportunities for independent and creative research, leadership experience, and integration into national and international research networks.

Salary and benefits are provided according to the public sector collective agreement (TVöD-Bund), with additional perks such as paid holiday leave, pension scheme, flexible working hours, and health management offerings. Applications should be submitted via the HZDR online application system, including all required documents. The position is subject to final project sponsor approval.