Postdoc in X-ray and neutron characterization of metals in AM

Tasks

At the Department of Materials Science, we offer a postdoctoral position focusing on in-situ and ex-situ synchrotron and neutron characterization of metallic materials processed with electron beam and laser beam processes, particularly within additive manufacturing (AM), welding, and heat treatment. The position is centered around the custom-built sample environment developed at the Swedish beamline at PETRA III, beamline P21.2, where both electron beam and laser processing can be studied in real-time under controlled conditions. The postdoc will further develop the methodology for applying this experimental setup in close cooperation with internal and external partners, as well as use it to generate new knowledge about the behavior of metals during rapid thermal cycles, such as during AM or laser welding.

In addition to the synchrotron experiments, the position will include work with complementary characterization methods to create a holistic understanding of microstructure development and mechanical properties. Through the combination of advanced in-situ studies and ex-situ analyses, the project aims to deepen the understanding of phase transformations, melt pool dynamics, solidification, as well as the properties of the processed materials in end-use, e.g., by studying their behavior under quasi-static or cyclic loading.

This research is central to enabling the development of new materials and process solutions that can support the sustainable development of industry, e.g., within the manufacturing industry or the energy production industry. The results generated will be important for the development of circular material flows where the amount of scrap is reduced and where recycled raw materials can be used more frequently.

The position offers a unique opportunity to work at large-scale research infrastructures, develop measurement methodology and data analysis for real-time studies, and collaborate closely with both academic and industrial partners, nationally and internationally, to solve important need-driven material and process issues. The postdoc will play a key role in driving research within electron beam and laser processes of metals and their final properties.

Qualifications

Requirements

• Completed Doctoral degree or equivalent foreign degree in materials science or a related field for the proposed research. This eligibility requirement must be met no later than when the employment decision is made.
• Research experience in characterization within materials science, especially synchrotron light and neutron characterization such as, e.g., diffraction, wide-angle X-ray scattering (WAXS, SAXS, ND, SANS, etc.) and imaging, proven by a merit list consisting of journal publications and international conference presentations.
• Ability to express yourself very well in English, both orally and in writing, as this will be required in daily work.
• You are self-driven with a strong ability to take initiative and drive projects.

As a person, you have well-developed analytical and problem-solving skills and like to take responsibility. You have strong collaborative skills, including the ability to lead and support research.

Merit

• At most three years since the doctoral degree or a foreign degree judged to correspond to a doctoral degree at the time of the application deadline.
• Extensive experience in data analysis for synchrotron light or neutron characterization of metallic materials.
• Experience in characterization of mechanical behavior, phase transformations and/or precipitations in metallic materials.
• Experience of electron beam and/or laser processing of metallic materials.
• Experience of lab-scale characterization of metallic materials, e.g., SEM.
• Awareness of diversity and equal treatment issues with a particular focus on gender equality.

We will place great emphasis on personal qualities.

Become a part of KTH

KTH shapes the future through education, research, and innovation. As a leading international technical university, we play an active role in driving and contributing to the transition to a sustainable society. Here, you are offered the opportunity to grow and develop in a creative and dynamic workplace with good working conditions and benefits. Equality, diversity, and equal opportunities are a matter of quality and an inherent part of KTH's values as a university and a government agency.

Read more about our benefits and what it is like to work and develop at KTH.

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Application

You apply via KTH's recruitment system. As an applicant, you are primarily responsible for ensuring that your application is complete when it is submitted.

The application should contain:

• CV including relevant professional experience and knowledge.
• Copy of degree certificates and transcripts from your previous university studies. Translations into English or Swedish if the original documents are not issued in either of these languages.
• A brief account of why you want to conduct research, your academic interests, and how they relate to your previous studies and future goals. Max 2 pages long.

The application must reach KTH no later than the application deadline at midnight, CET/CEST (Central European Time/Central European Summer Time).

About the employment

The employment is permanent, however, for a maximum of two years.

A postdoctoral employment is a fixed-term qualifying position primarily focused on research, intended as a first career step after graduation.

Other

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An employment at KTH may be subject to security clearance. If this is the case for this specific employment, a security clearance of the applicant will be conducted in accordance with the Security Protection Act (2018:585) after consent. In these cases, a prerequisite for employment is that the applicant is approved after the security clearance.

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