Yali Tang

Three fully funded PhD positions are available at Eindhoven University of Technology as part of the ERC Starting Grant project EcoIron. The research will focus on experimental and numerical investigations of metal electrodeposition, with applications in chemical and mechanical engineering. Candidates will join the Thermo-Fluids Engineering group and Mechanical Engineering department, working on cutting-edge topics such as CFD, diagnostics, and electrochemistry. Applicants should have a master's degree in a relevant engineering discipline and a strong motivation for research. The employment is full-time for four years, with an expected start date in April 2026. The application deadline is mid-November 2025. For more information and to apply, visit the provided links. The project is supervised by Associate Professor Yali Tang.

This fully funded PhD position at Eindhoven University of Technology focuses on computational fluid dynamics (CFD) modelling of metal electrodeposition, specifically ironmaking via low-temperature electrolysis. The project is part of the EcoIron initiative led by Prof. Yali Tang, supported by a European Research Council (ERC) starting grant. The research aims to address fundamental knowledge gaps in the conversion mechanisms from iron oxides to metallic iron, which are crucial for green steel production and iron-based energy storage. The successful candidate will develop advanced multiphase CFD models that resolve phase changes at interfaces and may integrate electrochemistry and electromagnetics. Model development will utilize interface tracking and capturing methods such as immersed boundary, level-set, volume-of-fluid, and phase field techniques. The position is embedded in the Department of Mechanical Engineering, which is renowned for its world-class research and strong industry collaborations, particularly in the Brainport region. The university offers a dynamic, interdisciplinary, and supportive research environment, with access to excellent technical infrastructure and professional development opportunities. Employment is full-time for four years, with a competitive salary (scale P: €3,059–€3,881/month), year-end bonus, vacation pay, pension scheme, and additional benefits including allowances for commuting, home working, and internet costs. International candidates benefit from a dedicated Staff Immigration Team and a tax compensation scheme. Applicants should have a master’s degree in a relevant field, strong CFD and programming skills, and fluency in English. The position includes teaching responsibilities (10–15% of time) and opportunities for personal growth. Applications must be submitted online and include a cover letter, CV, and references. The vacancy remains open until filled, with a formal deadline of November 16, 2025.

Eindhoven University of Technology, a leading institution in the Netherlands, is offering two fully funded PhD positions focused on experiments and diagnostics of iron electrodeposition, as part of the ERC-funded EcoIron project led by Associate Professor Yali Tang. The research aims to advance the fundamental understanding of low-temperature electrolysis for converting iron oxide into metallic iron, a process crucial for zero-emission ironmaking in green steel production and iron-based energy storage. Despite its potential, key knowledge gaps remain regarding the mechanisms of conversion from solid oxides to metallic iron and the physics and operational parameters that determine the quality and morphology of iron deposits. The successful candidates will conduct advanced electrochemical experiments, including techniques such as chronoamperometry (CA), cyclic voltammetry (CV), and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), alongside material characterization methods like scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES). Operando diagnostics, including neutron imaging and X-ray tomography/radiography, will be employed to gain real-time insights into the electrodeposition process. The positions are based in the Department of Mechanical Engineering, which is renowned for its world-class research and strong ties to the high-tech industry in the Brainport region. The university provides a dynamic, interdisciplinary, and international research environment, with excellent technical infrastructure and support services. The employment package includes a four-year full-time contract, competitive salary (scale P), year-end and vacation bonuses, pension scheme, paid parental leave, allowances for commuting and internet costs, and a tax compensation scheme for international candidates. Applicants must have a master’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, or a related field, with a solid background in electrochemical experimentation and/or diagnostics. Experience in metal electrodeposition/electrowinning is advantageous but not essential. Candidates should be research-oriented, able to work in interdisciplinary teams, motivated to develop teaching skills, and fluent in English (C1 level). Applications should be submitted online and must include a cover letter, CV, and contact details for two references. The position will remain open until filled, with an initial application deadline of November 16, 2025.

This fully funded postdoctoral position at Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e) offers a unique opportunity to advance the modelling of hydrogen-based direct iron reduction using state-of-the-art coupled CFD-DEM and TFM methods. The research is embedded within the group of Associate Professor Yali Tang and is conducted in close collaboration with an experimental PhD project at Hamburg University of Technology (TUHH), led by Prof. Stefan Heinrich. The project aims to address fundamental knowledge gaps in the behavior of micron-sized cohesive iron particles in reactive multiphase flows, which are critical for the commercialization of green ironmaking technologies and the decarbonization of the steel industry. As a postdoc, you will focus on developing and applying advanced numerical modelling techniques to characterize the sticking and sintering behavior of iron (oxide) powders at elevated temperatures. The research will link particle-scale phenomena to large-scale process dynamics in fluidized and spouted beds, providing a robust foundation for improved process design and industrial-scale optimization. The position emphasizes coupled CFD-DEM modelling, building on previous research projects within the group. Applicants should have a PhD in multiphase flow modelling, fluidization technology, or a related field, with demonstrated experience in coupled CFD-DEM and TFM. Strong programming skills in C/C++ and proficiency with open-source codes such as OpenFOAM and LIGGGHTS are essential. The role also involves mentoring junior researchers and collaborating within a dynamic, interdisciplinary team. Excellent English communication and leadership skills are required, along with the ability to manage complex projects. The position offers full-time employment for 2 years, with a competitive salary (scale 10: €4,241–€5,538), year-end bonus, vacation pay, and additional benefits such as partially paid parental leave, commuting and home working allowances, and access to high-quality training programs. International candidates are supported by a dedicated Staff Immigration Team, tax compensation schemes, and moving expense compensation. TU/e provides a vibrant academic environment with excellent technical infrastructure, on-campus childcare, sports facilities, and a Postdoc Association offering tailored support and networking opportunities. Applications must be submitted online and include a cover letter, CV with publications and references, and up to five best publications. The vacancy remains open until filled, with priority given to complete applications. The deadline for initial applications is March 2, 2026. For further information, contact Associate Professor Yali Tang at [email protected] or [email protected]. Please note that applications sent by email or post will not be processed.