XtrMTribo
(ref. BAP
Laatst aangepast: 27/01/26
We are looking to hire a PhD student in the field of Materials Science/Materials Physics/Materials Chemistry to work on the microscale tribology at the microstructural level, by conducting in situ mechanical experiments inside a scanning electron microscope.
Project
You will investigate the microtribological deformation behaviour of nickel based super alloys with a special emphasis on extreme deformation conditions such as high strain rates. You will perform advanced in situ microtribological experiments, primarily scratch testing, inside the scanning electron microscope (SEM) using state-of-the-art microtribological testers. In addition, you will be involved in the microstructural characterisation of the scratch tracks using techniques such as quantitative 3D back scatter electron detector (BSE) for in situ topography measurement and electron back scatter diffraction (EBSD). You will disseminate the outcome of your research in the form of scientific publications and present them at international scientific conferences.
Profile
You have a Masters degree with good to excellent marks in Materials Science, Tribology, Material Physics, Mechanical Engineering, Nanotechnology or a related field and you would like to work on challenging problems in Materials Science. The work requires high level of experimental skills and analytical mind set for interpreting the measured data. Through your studies, you acquired in-depth knowledge of material defects, thermodynamics, mechanical properties and materials characterization. You will gain knowledge in different electron microscopy techniques. Having previous publication experience and hands-on experience in optical/electron microscopy or diffraction is highly advantageous. Please send us your CV, copy of relevant publications, masters and bachelors transcripts.
Offer
The Department of Materials Engineering aims at pushing the boundaries of our understanding of materials and their imperfections. You will benefit from the department and university's excellent access to cutting-edge experimental infrastructure (SEM, in situ microtribology testers, tribometers, etc.) and intellectual resources, along with plenty of possibilities for personal and professional development in a highly interdisciplinary environment.
The PhD position is funded for 4 years, based on a Faculty research funds (BOF-FLOF)
Interested?
For more information please contact Prof. dr. ir. Raj Ramachandramoorthy, mail:
You can apply for this job no later than February 10, 2026 via the online application tool
KU Leuven strives for an inclusive, respectful and socially safe environment. We embrace diversity among individuals and groups as an asset. Open dialogue and differences in perspective are essential for an ambitious research and educational environment. In our commitment to equal opportunity, we recognize the consequences of historical inequalities. We do not accept any form of discrimination based on, but not limited to, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, age, ethnic or national background, skin colour, religious and philosophical diversity, neurodivergence, employment disability, health, or socioeconomic status. For questions about accessibility or support offered, we are happy to assist you at this email address.
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Tewerkstellingspercentage: Voltijds
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Locatie: Gent
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Solliciteren tot en met:
10/02/2026 23:59 CET
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Tags: Materiaalkunde