PhD Position Effect of Tramp Elements on hot Rolled Microstructures in Steels

This PhD position focuses on the effect of tramp elements on hot rolled microstructures in steels.

Effect of Tramp Elements on Hot Rolled Microstructures in Steels

Job description

The steel industry is undergoing a major transformation to meet sustainability and emissions goals. Particularly, steel production is moving into hydrogen-based DRI (Direct Reduced Iron) and EAF (Electric Arc Furnace) routes, which will significantly increase the use of scrap metal. However, scrap introduces unwanted impurities known as tramp elements—such as copper (Cu), tin (Sn), and nickel (Ni)—which can negatively impact the steel’s microstructure and mechanical properties.

This project investigates how these tramp elements affect the microstructure and performance of a high-value steel grade: a dual-phase automotive steel. The goal is to understand their impact during hot rolling, cold rolling, and annealing processes and to develop process strategies to mitigate potential negative effects. By doing so, the project supports the production of high-quality steels from recycled materials, strengthening circularity in the steel sector and contributing to EU and global CO₂ reduction targets.

The research will be conducted at TU Delft in collaboration with Tata Steel Netherlands, combining experimental work with advanced microstructural analysis and mechanical testing. The results will help guide future steel design and processing in scrap-rich manufacturing environments.

We are looking for an ambitious PhD-researcher to join this project. As a PhD-researcher, you will work in a stimulating academic environment and collaborate with a leading industrial partner. You will also have the opportunity to contribute to the academic community through discussions, the co-supervision of students, and guest lectures.

Job requirements

We seek an outstanding, motivated and enthusiastic researcher with experience in microstructure development in metals and physical metallurgy. Applicants must:

• hold an MSc-degree in the field of materials science or related disciplines, such as solid-state physics or materials engineering, with a solid background in metal science
• have experience with microstructural characterization
• have a critical, curious, and creative approach to the research, with excellent problem-solving skills and communication skills
• have proven experience in writing scientific reports
• have the motivation to work in an international, multidisciplinary, and academic-industrial team
• be willing to participate in educational activities such as guest lectures
• have proven excellent written and spoken English skills

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.

TU Delft

Delft University of Technology is an international university combining science, engineering and design. It delivers results in education, research and innovation to address challenges in the areas of energy, climate, mobility, health and digital society.

Faculty Mechanical Engineering

Research and education at the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering focuses on fundamental understanding, design, production including application and product improvement, materials, processes and mechanical systems.

ME is a dynamic and innovative faculty with high-tech lab facilities and international reach. It is a large and versatile faculty where unique connections are often made by combining different disciplines.

Conditions of employment

Doctoral candidates will be offered a 4-year period of employment in principle, in the form of 2 employment contracts. An initial 1.5 year contract includes an official go/no go progress assessment within 15 months, followed by an additional contract for the remaining 2.5 years assuming performance requirements are met.

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.

TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, discounts on health insurance, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged.