PhD Student (f/m/d) Mechanical characterization of ion-irradiated layers as part of a materials acceleration platform for the use of high-entropy-alloys as nuclear structural materials / Completed university studies (Master) in Materials …

Role: PhD Student (f/m/d) Mechanical characterization of ion-irradiated layers as part of a materials acceleration platform for the use of high-entropy-alloys as nuclear structural materials

Organization: Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf (HZDR) - Helmholtz Association
Location: Dresden, Germany
Start Date: 01.07.2026
Contract Type: To be defined (Part-time suitability indicated)

Role Overview:
The Institute of Resource Ecology at HZDR is seeking a PhD student to join the Department of Structural Materials. The position focuses on the mechanical characterization of ion-irradiated layers within a materials acceleration platform (MAP) for nuclear structural materials. High-Entropy Alloys (HEAs) are being investigated for their potential to meet the demanding requirements of next-generation nuclear power plants, specifically regarding tolerance against irradiation, high temperatures, and corrosion. The role involves addressing the time-prohibitive nature of conventional alloy development by utilizing a European joint research project that combines numerical simulations, ion irradiations, and fast screening tests. The PhD candidate will focus on irradiation-induced damage in HEA candidates, developing screening tests for embrittlement and swelling, and investigating the transferability of ion-induced irradiation damage to neutron-induced damage for use in lead-cooled fast reactors (LFR).

Responsibilities:
- Planning and conduction of screening-tests to evaluate irradiation tolerance of high-entropy alloys.
- Hardness measurement of thin ion-irradiated layers by nanoindentation, including numerical evaluation of the results.
- Characterization of irradiation induced swelling using profilometry.
- Independent concept development and experimental validation.
- Documentation, analysis and scientific publication of results (publications, conferences, dissertation).
- Cooperation with colleagues at HZDR and European partner institutions working on other aspects of the MAP.

Requirements and Qualifications:
- Completed university studies (Master/ Diploma) in the field of Materials Science, Physics, Materials Engineering, Nuclear Engineering or a related field.
- Solid knowledge of materials characterization, particularly regarding microstructure and mechanical properties.
- Initial experience or strong interest in ion irradiation and irradiation induced effects (embrittlement, hardening, swelling).
- Basic knowledge of micro- or nanohardness measurement is an advantage.
- Experience with microstructure-based modelling of mechanical properties is desirable.
- Scientific curiosity, openness to new topics and willingness for further development.
- Willingness to communicate and collaborate with scientific partner institutions.
- Enthusiasm for tackling challenging and complex scientific questions.
- Willingness to present research results at national and international conferences.
- Ability to work in a team, independent, structured and solution-oriented working style.
- Proficiency in scientific software (Origin, Matlab, Python) and good command of MS Office.
- Basic knowledge of scientific data analysis and statistical evaluation.
- Excellent written and spoken English skills; German skills desired.

What They Offer:
- A vibrant research community in an open, diverse and international work environment.
- Scientific excellence and extensive professional networking opportunities.
- A structured PhD program with a comprehensive range of continuing education and networking opportunities.
- Salary and social benefits in accordance with the collective agreement for the public sector (TVöD-Bund), including 30 days of paid holiday leave and a company pension scheme (VBL).
- Potential classification in salary group 13 according to TVöD-Bund, depending on personal qualifications.
- Support for work-life balance with the possibility of part-time employment, mobile working, and flexible working hours.
- Numerous company health management offerings.
- Employee discounts with well-known providers via the platform Corporate Benefits.
- An employer subsidy for the "Deutschland-Ticket Jobticket".