PhD Position in Radiation Damage Effects in Materials for Nuclear Fusion and Fission Energy Forschungszentrum Jülich in Germany

This PhD position at Forschungszentrum Jülich, offered through the HITEC Graduate School, focuses on the examination and correlation of radiation damage effects in materials arising from fission and fusion energy applications. The research aims to understand how high temperature and intense radiation environments, such as those found in nuclear reactors, affect refractory materials like uranium, tungsten, and zirconium alloys. The project is a joint venture between the Institute of Nuclear Waste Management (IFN2) and the Institute of Fusion Energy (IFN1), with IFN2 as the primary lead under the supervision of Gabriel Lynch-Murphy.

The successful candidate will fabricate high refractory oxide and alloy materials, perform irradiation damage experiments, and conduct post-characterization using advanced techniques such as synchrotron X-ray scattering and electron microscopy. The goal is to develop a structure-physics based description of radiation damage in both fusion and fission-based materials, linking microstructural changes across variable temperature and dose scales. The research will contribute to safer and more efficient nuclear energy systems by enhancing the understanding of material degradation and stability under reactor conditions.

Applicants should have a strong background in materials science, physics, or related fields, with experience in experimental techniques relevant to the project. The position is likely funded, as is typical for HITEC Graduate School PhDs, but candidates should confirm details via the application portal. For more information or to apply, candidates should use the provided application link and may contact Gabriel Lynch-Murphy with inquiries.