Francesco Maresca

PhD opportunity at the University of Groningen in multi-scale modelling of precipitate strengthening , dislocation-precipitate interactions , and green steel mechanics . The project sits within the National Growth Fund initiative Groeien met Groen Staal (GGS) and is hosted by the Engineering and Technology institute Groningen (ENTEG) , Faculty of Science and Engineering, in collaboration with the materials innovation institute M2i . The research focuses on understanding micro-scale and atomic-scale processes in multi-component alloy systems relevant to sustainable steel production. You will develop a multi-scale framework that combines atomistic mechanisms such as precipitate shearing and looping with micro-scale dislocation-precipitate interaction models to predict strengthening as a function of green steel composition. This is a PhD position for 4 years with a full-time employment contract. The salary is €3,059 to €3,881 gross per month , plus an end-of-year bonus and holiday allowance. The appointment starts with a one-year contract and may be renewed for three additional years depending on satisfactory progress. Eligibility highlights: MSc degree or equivalent in Mechanical Engineering, Civil (Structural) Engineering, or a related discipline; strong background in solid mechanics; excellent analytical and communication skills; motivation for theoretical and computational mechanics research. Experience with finite element implementation, coding, discrete dislocation mechanics, and molecular dynamics is a plus. Application deadline: 30 June 2026, 23:59 Dutch local time. How to apply: Submit your application via the University of Groningen vacancy portal. Include a motivation letter, detailed CV, official BSc and MSc transcripts, and at least two references with full contact details. Questions about the vacancy can be directed to Prof. Francesco Maresca at [email protected].

PhD opportunity at the University of Groningen in the Faculty of Science and Engineering on multi-scale modelling of precipitate strengthening , with a focus on materials science , mechanical engineering , solid mechanics , and computational mechanics . This PhD is part of the National Growth Fund project Groeien met Groen Staal (Growing with Green Steel). The project investigates how green steel composition, impurities, tramp elements, and precipitates influence strengthening in recycled steel. The research combines atomic-scale and micro-scale modelling, including dislocation-precipitate interactions, atomistic modelling, molecular dynamics, discrete dislocation mechanics, finite element implementation, and computational solid mechanics. The successful candidate will work on developing a multi-scale framework that captures precipitate shearing and looping mechanisms and predicts precipitate strengthening as a function of steel composition. This is a strong fit for applicants interested in steel microstructure, green steel production, and theoretical/computational mechanics of materials. Eligibility: MSc degree or equivalent in Mechanical Engineering, Civil/Structural Engineering, or a related discipline; strong background in solid mechanics; excellent analytical and communication skills. Experience with coding, finite element methods, molecular dynamics, and dislocation mechanics is an advantage. Funding and conditions: Full-time PhD employment for 4 years (1.0 FTE) with a gross monthly salary of €3,059–€3,881, plus holiday allowance, end-of-year bonus, and a PhD training programme. The contract starts as a one-year appointment with possible renewal for three additional years, subject to progress. Deadline: 30 June 2026, 23:59 Dutch local time. Application: Submit a motivation letter (max 1 page), detailed CV, official BSc and MSc transcripts, and at least two references. Apply via the University of Groningen vacancy page.