Diletta Giuntini

Are you passionate about sustainable manufacturing and advanced materials? The Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e), in collaboration with the Technical University of Denmark (DTU), offers a unique PhD opportunity to revolutionize the production of silicon carbide (SiC), one of engineering’s most exceptional and challenging materials. This project aims to pioneer a low-energy manufacturing route for SiC, combining advanced sintering techniques, materials characterization, and optimization tools to push the boundaries of ceramic manufacturing. Silicon carbide is renowned for its hardness, thermal stability, and chemical resistance, but its traditional production methods are highly energy-intensive. As a PhD candidate, you will contribute to developing new materials that could be used in nuclear fusion reactors, semiconductor manufacturing equipment, aerospace components, and next-generation energy systems. Your research will directly support the decarbonization of energy-intensive industries, addressing one of Europe’s most urgent industrial challenges. You will be embedded in the Mechanics of Materials section at TU/e’s Department of Mechanical Engineering, working with Prof. Diletta Giuntini and a team specializing in sintering mechanics, materials characterization, and manufacturing optimization. Extended research stays at DTU with Prof. Apurv Dash will provide complementary expertise in ceramic chemistry. The project is part of the EuroTech Universities Alliance, offering access to a network of leading European technical universities and industrial partners for real-world exposure. Applicants should hold (or be close to completing) a Master’s degree in Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related field. Fluency in English is required, and experience with materials processing or characterization is advantageous. The position encourages independent and collaborative work, teaching skill development, and student coaching. Employment is full-time for four years, with an intermediate assessment after nine months. You will spend 10–15% of your time on teaching tasks. Salary is in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, scale P (€3,059–€3,881/month), plus a year-end bonus (8.3%), annual vacation pay (8%), pension scheme, paid pregnancy and maternity leave, partially paid parental leave, commuting and home working allowances, and a tax compensation scheme (30% facility) for international candidates. Additional benefits include access to the TU/e Student Sports Center, technical infrastructure, on-campus childcare, and high-quality training programs. To apply, submit your application online via the provided link. Required documents include a cover letter, CV with contact information for three references, and a short description of your Master Thesis (including a statement of novelty). Complete applications are prioritized. The vacancy remains open until filled, with a deadline of May 26, 2026. Please note that applications sent by email or post will not be processed. A pre-employment screening may be part of the selection procedure. For further information, contact Prof. Diletta Giuntini ([email protected]) or HR Services ME ([email protected]). Explore more about TU/e, the Brainport Eindhoven region, and the application process on the university’s website.