PhD Position Effect of tramp elements on hot rolled microstructures in steels

Job Description

The steel industry is undergoing a major transformation to meet sustainability and emissions goals. Particularly, steel production is moving into hydrogen-based DRI (Direct Reduced Iron) and EAF (Electric Arc Furnace) routes, which will significantly increase the use of scrap metal. However, scrap introduces unwanted impurities known as tramp elements-such as copper (Cu), tin (Sn), and nickel (Ni)-which can negatively impact the steel's microstructure and mechanical properties.

This project investigates how these tramp elements affect the microstructure and performance of a high-value steel grade: a dual-phase automotive steel. The goal is to understand their impact during hot rolling, cold rolling, and annealing processes and to develop process strategies to mitigate potential negative effects. By doing so, the project supports the production of high-quality steels from recycled materials, strengthening circularity in the steel sector and contributing to EU and global CO₂ reduction targets.

The research will be conducted at TU Delft in collaboration with Tata Steel Netherlands, combining experimental work with advanced microstructural analysis and mechanical testing. The results will help guide future steel design and processing in scrap-rich manufacturing environments.

We are looking for an ambitious PhD-researcher to join this project. As a PhD-researcher, you will work in a stimulating academic environment and collaborate with a leading industrial partner. You will also have the opportunity to contribute to the academic community through discussions, the co-supervision of students, and guest lectures.

Requirements

We seek an outstanding, motivated and enthusiastic researcher with experience in microstructure development in metals and physical metallurgy. Applicant must:

• hold an MSc-degree in the field of materials science or related disciplines, such as solid-state physics or materials engineering, with a solid background in metal science
• have experience with microstructural characterization
• have a critical, curious, and creative approach to the research, with excellent problem-solving skills and communication skills
• have proven experience in writing scientific reports
• have the motivation to work in an international, multidisciplinary, and academic-industrial team
• be willing to participate in educational activities such as guest lectures
• have proven excellent written and spoken English skills

Conditions of employment

Doctoral candidates will be offered a 4-year period of employment in principle, but in the form of 2 employment contracts. An initial 1,5 year contract with an official go/no go progress assessment within 15 months. Followed by an additional contract for the remaining 2,5 years assuming everything goes well and performance requirements are met.

Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, increasing from €3059 - €3881 gross per month, from the first year to the fourth year based on a fulltime contract (38 hours), plus 8% holiday allowance and an end-of-year bonus of 8.3%.

As a PhD candidate you will be enrolled in the TU Delft Graduate School. The TU Delft Graduate School provides an inspiring research environment with an excellent team of supervisors, academic staff and a mentor. The Doctoral Education Programme is aimed at developing your transferable, discipline-related and research skills.

The TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, discounts on health insurance, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged.

Will you need to relocate to the Netherlands for this job? TU Delft is committed to make your move as smooth as possible! The HR unit, Coming to Delft Service, offers information on their website to help you prepare your relocation. In addition, Coming to Delft Service organises events to help you settle in the Netherlands, and expand your (social) network in Delft. A Dual Career Programme is available, to support your accompanying partner with their job search in the Netherlands.

Additional information

For more information about this vacancy, please contact Prof. Dr. Maria J. Santofimia ([email protected]) or Dr. Hossein Beladi ([email protected]).

For information about the application procedure, please contact Mrs. Anita van Vianen, email: [email protected].

Application procedure

Are you interested in this vacancy? Please apply no later than 8 June 2026 via the application button and upload the following documents:

• Your letter of motivation.
• Your Curriculum Vitae.
• The transcripts of your bachelor and master studies

You can address your application to Prof. Dr. Maria J. Santofimia and Dr. Hossein Beladi.

Doing a PhD at TU Delft requires English proficiency at a certain level to ensure that the candidate is able to communicate and interact well, participate in English-taught Doctoral Education courses, and write scientific articles and a final thesis. For more details please check the Graduate Schools Admission Requirements.

Please note:

• You can apply online. We will not process applications sent by email and/or post.
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