Martin Diehl

KU Leuven is offering two full-time, four-year PhD positions focused on investigating hydrogen embrittlement in duplex stainless steel alloys. These alloys are valued for their high strength and corrosion resistance, but exposure to hydrogen and low temperatures can reduce their ductility, posing challenges for their use in hydrogen infrastructure and energy applications. The research will combine advanced experimental techniques—such as small-scale mechanical testing and electron microscopy—with computational multiphysics modeling using grain-scale simulations and software tools like DAMASK. Candidates will have the opportunity to specialize in either experimental or computational aspects, working closely within a multidisciplinary team of engineers and scientists. The project aims to integrate experimental insights with computational predictions to better understand and mitigate hydrogen-induced degradation in two-phase metals. Applicants should have a strong background in materials science, mechanical engineering, physics, or a related field, and demonstrate interest or experience in relevant experimental or computational methods. Proficiency in English and a clear indication of research focus in the cover letter are required. KU Leuven offers a competitive monthly salary, health insurance, and social security benefits, along with support for research, innovation, and career development in both academia and industry. The application deadline is 17 March 2026. Applications must be submitted via the KU Leuven online portal; direct email applications will not be considered. For further information, candidates may contact Prof. Dr. Ir. Joris Everaerts or Prof. Dr.-Ing. Martin Diehl. Key research areas include hydrogen embrittlement, duplex stainless steel, advanced materials characterization, computational modeling, and energy applications. This is an excellent opportunity for motivated graduates to contribute to cutting-edge research in materials science and engineering at a leading European university.

KU Leuven invites applications for two PhD positions focused on developing novel methods to probe phase-specific property changes induced by hydrogen in dual-phase metals, specifically duplex stainless steel alloys. The project addresses the challenge of hydrogen embrittlement, which significantly alters mechanical properties and reduces ductility at low temperatures. Funded by the Research Foundation - Flanders (FWO), this research aims to enable the safe use of duplex steels in hydrogen storage and transport infrastructure. Successful candidates will join either the Computational Materials Science group or the Micro- and Nanomechanics of Materials (MnM²) team. The Computational Materials Science group specializes in physics-based multiphysics simulations at the grain scale and implements these models in the open source software DAMASK. The MnM² team focuses on micro- and nanomechanics, in-situ nanomechanical testing, and residual stress evaluation at very small scales. Both teams are part of the Department of Materials Engineering at KU Leuven, offering a multidisciplinary and international research environment. The project combines advanced experimental characterization techniques and multiphysics-based computational modelling to study the complex effects of hydrogen exposure and cooling on duplex stainless steel. Candidates should indicate their preference for either the experimental or computational focus in their cover letter. Applicants must hold (or expect to obtain by summer 2026) a Master degree in Materials Science, Materials Engineering, Physics, Mechanical Engineering, or a related discipline. Experience or strong interest in small scale mechanical testing, electron microscopy, computational materials science, computational mechanics, and/or software engineering is required. Excellent proficiency in English, both oral and written, is essential. KU Leuven offers two full-time PhD positions, each with a four-year duration. The positions provide a salary or monthly tax-free grant, health insurance, and social security coverage. The university fosters an inclusive, respectful, and socially safe environment, supporting diversity and equal opportunity. For accessibility or support questions, contact the provided email addresses. To apply, use the KU Leuven online application tool. Applications via e-mail will not be considered. For further information, contact Prof. dr. ir. Joris Everaerts or Prof. Dr.-Ing. Martin Diehl by email. The application deadline is March 17, 2026.