Kornelius Nielsch

MGICIAN is recruiting for 15 fully funded PhD studentships across Europe under an MSCA Doctoral Network funded by the European Union. The network focuses on magnesium-based thermoelectric materials for efficient, sustainable solid-state cooling , bringing together academic and industrial partners across Europe. One of the doctoral projects is DC3 – Microstructure, Defect, and Interface Engineering of Magnesium-Based Thermoelectric Materials , hosted by the Max Planck Institute for Sustainable Materials in Düsseldorf, Germany , with the PhD awarded by RWTH Aachen University . The project investigates microstructure, grain boundaries, point defects, secondary phases, and interfaces in magnesium-based thermoelectric materials, and how these features affect thermoelectric performance and module reliability. The doctoral candidate will work on advanced materials characterisation and electron microscopy , including techniques such as TEM , HRSTEM , APT , EDX , EBSD , and XRD . The project also includes collaboration with synthesis, modelling, and module-focused doctoral candidates, plus secondments at IFAM and IFW Dresden . Eligibility highlights include a Master’s degree or equivalent in Materials Science, Physics, Chemistry, Engineering, or a closely related field , eligibility to enrol in a PhD programme at RWTH Aachen University, strong English skills, and a background in materials characterisation or functional materials. The post emphasizes analytical ability, independent working, and experience with advanced characterisation methods as highly desirable. Applications are still open. Interested candidates should use the official MGICIAN application form and review the doctoral project details before applying.