PhD position: equilibrium behavior of tramp elements for green steel production

Job Description

The transition to low-carbon steel production is one of the key challenges in modern industry. At Tata Steel IJmuiden, this transition involves replacing the traditional blast furnace route with Direct Reduction, Electric Arc Furnaces (EAF), and, in a later stage, a Reducing Electric Furnace (REF). While these technologies enable significant CO₂ reduction, they introduce new challenges-most notably the accumulation of "tramp elements" from scrap and variable feedstocks, which can negatively affect steel quality and slag usability.

This PhD project aims to develop a fundamental thermodynamic understanding of how tramp and trace elements distribute between molten steel, slag, and vapor under next-generation steelmaking conditions. The research will focus on experimentally determining equilibrium partitioning behavior across relevant temperature, composition, and redox conditions, and translating these insights into predictive models for industrial application.

You will design and conduct high-temperature equilibration experiments using advanced gas-mixing furnaces at TU Delft and partner institutes. Samples will be analysed using state-of-the-art techniques such as laser ablation ICP-MS and electron microscopy to quantify trace element distributions at high spatial resolution. The resulting data will be integrated into thermodynamic models (e.g. FACTSage-based approaches) to support process optimisation and control in industrial steelmaking.

The project is carried out in close collaboration with Tata Steel R&D and academic partners, offering a unique opportunity to work at the interface of fundamental science and industrial application. You will contribute directly to the development of green steelmaking technologies while gaining expertise in high-temperature materials science, thermodynamics, and advanced analytical techniques.

Your profile

We are looking for a highly motivated candidate with a Master's degree in Materials Science, Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, Geoscience, or a related field. A strong interest in thermodynamics, high-temperature processes, and experimental work is essential. Experience with analytical techniques or modelling is an advantage.

• Design and perform high-temperature equilibrium experiments to study tramp element partitioning between steel, slag, and vapor phases
• Analyse experimental samples using advanced techniques (e.g. LA-ICP-MS, SEM/EDS) to quantify trace element distributions
• Develop and interpret thermodynamic datasets describing element behavior under EAF and REF conditions
• Integrate experimental results into thermochemical models (e.g. FACTSage) to support process simulation and optimisation
• Collaborate with researchers at TU Delft and Tata Steel IJmuiden, and communicate findings through reports and scientific publications

Job requirements

• MSc degree in Experimental Petrology, Materials Science, Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, Geoscience, or a closely related field
• Strong interest in thermodynamics, high-temperature processes, and experimental research
• Affinity with or experience in laboratory work and materials characterization techniques (e.g. SEM, ICP-MS)
• Basic knowledge of thermodynamic modelling or willingness to learn tools such as FACTSage
• Analytical mindset with strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in an interdisciplinary team
• Good communication skills in English (written and spoken)
• Motivation to engage with both academic research at TU Delft and industrial application at Tata Steel IJmuiden

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 €3204 - €4051 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

If you would like more information about this vacancy or the selection procedure, please contact Edgar Steenstra, via [email protected].

Application procedure

Are you interested in this vacancy? Please apply no later than 5 September 2026 via the application button and upload the following documents:

• CV
• Motivational letter

You can address your application to Edgar Steenstra.

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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