This PhD position at the Institute for Advanced Simulations – Materials Data Science and Informatics (IAS-9), Forschungszentrum Jülich, focuses on developing digital methods for inverse microstructure design of sustainable structural metals. Through high-performance computing, data-driven alloy design, and close collaboration with experimental groups, you’ll help pioneer the future of recyclable nanostructured materials.
🔍 Job Details
| Title | PhD Position – Inverse Design of Microstructures for Novel Sustainable Structural Metals |
|---|---|
| Organization/Publisher | Forschungszentrum Jülich – Institute for Advanced Simulations (IAS-9) |
| Work Location | Aachen/Jülich, Germany |
| Research Field | Nanotechnology, Materials Science, Computational Mechanics, Sustainable Alloys |
| Researcher Profile | PhD Student / Early-Stage Researcher |
| Contract Type | Fixed-term (3 years, 80% TVöD-Bund E13) |
| Application Deadline | Open until filled (apply as early as possible) |
| Start Date | Flexible, 2025 |
| Salary | 80% of TVöD-Bund E13 (competitive) |
| Required Qualification | Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Physics, Computational Science, or related fields |
| Required Experience | Knowledge of solid mechanics, FEM/spectral solvers, Python programming, Unix/Linux |
| How to Apply | Submit CV, motivation letter, degree certificates, and transcripts via Forschungszentrum Jülich career portal |
About the Program
The PhD project is part of the DFG Priority Programme “DaMic – Data-driven Alloy and Microstructure Design of Sustainable Structural Metals (SPP 2489)”, focusing on lean alloys (like Al-Ca) for improved recyclability and performance. Based at IAS-9, Forschungszentrum Jülich, you’ll work in a highly interdisciplinary environment combining computational materials science, AI/ML-driven design, and advanced electron microscopy collaborations.
What You’ll Do
As a doctoral researcher, you will:
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Develop automated workflows for descriptor-based microstructure reconstruction.
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Extract material parameters for crystal plasticity simulations using inverse analysis.
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Build structure–property linkages from simulations, optimized for AI/ML frameworks.
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Implement inverse optimization frameworks to identify microstructures with targeted macroscopic properties.
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Publish in top journals and present results at international conferences.
Who Succeeds Here
This position is ideal if you have:
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A strong background in computational mechanics and materials modeling.
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Experience with finite element/spectral solvers.
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Proficiency in Python programming and Linux/Unix environments.
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Motivation to work in close collaboration with experimental groups.
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Excellent teamwork and communication skills in English.
Benefits & Environment
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Work within a leading European research facility with direct access to the Jülich Supercomputing Center and Ernst-Ruska Electron Microscopy Centre.
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Structured training and professional development via JuDocS (Jülich Center for Doctoral Researchers and Supervisors).
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Funding for national and international conferences.
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Flexible working hours, 30 days of annual leave, and support for international researchers.
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Collaborative and interdisciplinary research environment.
Application Instructions
Applicants must submit the following:
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Motivation letter
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CV
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Degree certificates and grade transcripts
Apply via the Forschungszentrum Jülich career portal:
👉 Official Application Page
Deadline: Open until position is filled (apply as soon as possible).
Ready to shape the future of sustainable nanostructured alloys?
🔗 Reference Links
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Forschungszentrum Jülich – Official Careers Page
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JuDocS Doctoral Support – Jülich Center for Doctoral Researchers
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Equality & Diversity at Jülich – More Info
⚠️ Disclaimer
This blog post is a summarized version of the official job advertisement. For full details, eligibility requirements, and the most up-to-date information, always refer to the official Forschungszentrum Jülich career portal.
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