1 PhD Position in Advanced Modelling and Control for Super-Thick Laser Engineered Surfaces for High Temperature Applications (AMOST) in Netherlands | University of Twente

With the growing demand for reducing the environmental impact of manufacturing, while improving product integrity and downstream impact, outstanding process and product control while increasing service life is increasingly important in modern manufacturing. To this end, this research project concerns the development of a new relatively thick coatings deposited in a way never previously achieved through innovative laser cladding for high temperature tribology applications. The project will utilize high power laser systems to investigate and develop thick, self-lubricating coatings for use in heavily cyclically loaded (thermally and mechanically) applications. The project is inherently multi-disciplinary and will include the development of experimental setup, experimental validation and theoretical (stress) modelling. The PhD-candidate (4 years, fully paid) will join the Department of Mechanics of Solids, Surfaces and Systems (MS3) within the Faculty of Engineering Technology of the University of Twente. The research will be untaken within both the Chair of Applied Laser Technology and the Chair of Surface Technology and Tribology of MS3. These research groups specialize in science-based engineering applications of modern optics and laser technology, surface design and tribo-(chemical) contacts. All work is underpinned by strong links to the steel Industry and will be performed in conjunction with several European partners.

Requirements

We seek an enthusiastic PhD candidate with a background in or affinity with mechanical or manufacturing engineering, physics, materials science, or (laser) process control. Some of the desired skills can be acquired during an individual training programme of 840 hours that is part of the PhD project. We consider it important that the candidate is able to view his/her research from a broader perspective (within the scientific world and towards the practical application) and that he/she is willing and able to collaborate closely with other researchers and the Industrial partner. Therefore, we welcome entrepreneurial candidates with an open mind, strong communicative skills and excellent comprehension of English, in both spoken language and writing. Comprehension of the Dutch language is beneficial.

To summarize, the successful candidate will have a strong background in materials or mechanical engineering and/or photonics and an innovative mind-set. Being able to think outside the box and having a drive to achieve tangible results will augment good communication skills and an excellent command of the English language. Excellent experimental and computational skills are essential.

Conditions of employment

We offer a very challenging PhD position in an inspiring multidisciplinary environment. As a PhD candidate you will be appointed in a full-time position for a period of 4 years, after which you should have completed your PhD thesis. Gross monthly salary for this position will range from € 2.125,- in the first year up to € 2.717,- gross per month in the fourth year (in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities). The University of Twente provides excellent facilities for professional and personal development, a holiday allowance (8%) and an end-of-year bonus (8.3%), and a number of additional benefits.

Organisation

The University of Twente. We stand for life sciences and technology. High tech and human touch. Education and research that matter. New technology which drives change, innovation and progress in society. The University of Twente is the only campus university in the Netherlands; divided over six faculties we provide more than fifty educational programmes. The University of Twente has a strong focus on personal development and talented researchers are given scope for carrying out pioneering research.

The Faculty of Engineering Technology (CTW) is one of the six faculties of the University of Twente. CTW combines Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering and Industrial Design Engineering. Our faculty has approximately 1800 bachelor and master students, 400 employees and 150 PhD candidates. The departments of the faculty cooperatively conduct the educational programmes and participate in interdisciplinary research projects, programmes and the research institutes: MIRA, CTIT, and IGS.