XiaoCheng Mi

The Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e) is offering a PhD position focused on the experimental study of combustion in impure iron powders for sustainable energy storage. This opportunity is embedded within the Department of Mechanical Engineering and is part of a newly funded project under the Open Technology Programme (OTP) of the Dutch Research Council (NWO). The research aims to advance the Iron Power Cycle, a circular and carbon-free energy carrier, by investigating the combustion behavior of iron powders with controlled impurities. The goal is to enable the use of low-cost, industrially sourced iron powders for large-scale energy storage and transport. The PhD candidate will conduct advanced combustion experiments, including single-particle combustion and solid-phase oxidation studies, as well as post-combustion material analyses. The research will contribute to a fundamental understanding of how impurities such as carbon and metal oxides influence ignition, combustion temperature, and particle morphology. The findings will support the development of predictive models for next-generation metal-fuel energy systems. The project is closely linked to complementary multiscale modeling activities and involves collaboration with both academic and industrial partners. The research is situated within the Power and Flow (P&F) Section, which is internationally recognized for its expertise in iron-powder combustion and metal fuel technologies. The PhD candidate will benefit from a dynamic, interdisciplinary environment and access to high-quality training programs, technical infrastructure, and support for professional development. TU/e offers a vibrant academic community located in Brainport Eindhoven, a world-leading tech region known for breakthroughs in AI, photonics, semiconductors, and advanced manufacturing. Applicants should have a Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Physics, or a related discipline. A strong interest in experimental combustion, multiphase flows, or reactive materials is essential. Experience with laboratory experiments and data analysis is required, and familiarity with optical diagnostics or materials characterization is advantageous. Good programming and data-processing skills, the ability to work independently and in interdisciplinary teams, and excellent communication skills in English are expected. The position offers full-time employment for four years, with an intermediate assessment after nine months. The salary is in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, scale P (€3,059–€3,881/month), plus a year-end bonus of 8.3% and annual vacation pay of 8%. Additional benefits include a pension scheme, paid pregnancy and maternity leave, partially paid parental leave, allowances for commuting, working from home and internet costs, unlimited access to the TU/e Student Sports Center, and a tax compensation scheme (30% facility) for international candidates. The university also provides excellent technical infrastructure, on-campus childcare, and sports facilities. To apply, submit your application online via the provided link. Your application should include a cover letter describing your motivation and qualifications, a CV with a list of publications, and the contact information of three references. Only complete applications will be considered. Applications sent by email or post will not be processed. The vacancy will remain open until the position is filled, with a deadline of May 26, 2026. For further information, contact Prof. XiaoCheng Mi ([email protected]) or Hind Boulgalag ([email protected]). Additional details about the university, the research environment, and the application process can be found on the TU/e website.

PhD opportunity at Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e) in the Department of Mechanical Engineering , within Group Mi / the Thermo-Fluids Engineering area and the Power and Flow (P&F) Section . The project is titled “Experimental Study on Combustion of Impure Iron Powders for Sustainable Energy” and is part of the Com-Impure-Iron project funded by the Dutch Research Council (NWO) under the Open Technology Programme (OTP) . The research focuses on the Iron Power Cycle as a circular, carbon-free energy carrier for large-scale energy storage and transport. The PhD candidate will perform single-particle combustion experiments , study the effects of impurities such as carbon and metal oxides , investigate solid-phase oxidation , and carry out detailed post-combustion materials characterization . The work aims to improve fundamental understanding of how impurities affect ignition, combustion temperature, and particle morphology, and to support predictive models for next-generation metal-fuel energy systems. Eligibility highlights: a Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Physics, or a related field; strong interest in experimental combustion, multiphase flows, or reactive materials; laboratory and data-analysis experience; programming/data-processing skills; and excellent English communication. Funding and conditions: this is a 4-year fully funded PhD with full-time employment. The post includes salary according to Dutch university scale P, year-end bonus, vacation pay, and standard TU/e employment benefits. The role also includes a small teaching component and access to advanced experimental facilities, training, and an international research environment. Application window: the vacancy remains open until filled, but the listed deadline is 26 May 2026 . Applicants should apply online through the TU/e vacancy portal and submit a cover letter, CV with publications, and three references.