PhD Position Effect of Tramp Elements in Martensitic Stainless Steels

In this PhD project: Effect of tramp elements in martensitic stainless steels

Job description

As the steel industry moves towards a more sustainable future, increasing the use of recycled scrap is becoming essential. However, recycled steel often contains residual alloying elements that are difficult to remove and are carried over into newly produced steels. These so-called “tramp elements” or impurities can significantly affect steel quality, causing issues ranging from surface cracking during processing to the formation of undesirable phases in the final microstructure.

This challenge is particularly relevant for martensitic stainless steels, a technologically important class of materials whose outstanding properties depend on a carefully controlled microstructure. Understanding how impurity elements influence these steels is therefore critical for enabling a circular and resource-efficient steel industry.

In this PhD project, you will investigate which impurity elements are most critical for martensitic stainless steels, where they originate from, and how they accumulate throughout recycling loops. Combining advanced characterization, materials science, and metallurgical insight, you will explore how these elements affect microstructure evolution, processing behaviour, and ultimately material performance. Where possible, strategies to mitigate their negative effects will also be examined.

The project offers an exciting opportunity to address a fundamental scientific challenge with direct industrial relevance. By improving our understanding of impurities in recycled steels, you will contribute to the development of more sustainable steel production routes while helping to unlock higher recycled content without compromising quality or performance.

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 leading industrial partners. 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.

TU Delft (Delft University of Technology)

Working at TU Delft means contributing to solutions that really make a difference.

At TU Delft, our people make the difference. With their knowledge and curiosity, our staff provide a high-quality education and conduct pioneering research that extends beyond the campus. You will have the opportunity to take the initiative, work with others, and grow as a professional.

Working at TU Delft means joining an international community of professionals and students. Together, we create knowledge, innovations, and solutions that help move the world forward.

Faculty Mechanical Engineering

Research and education at the Mechanical Engineering faculty 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’s a large faculty but also versatile, so unique connections can often be 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 everything goes well and 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.

Will you need to relocate to the Netherlands for this job? TU Delft is committed to making your move as smooth as possible. The HR unit, Coming to Delft Service, offers information to help you prepare your relocation. In addition, Coming to Delft Service organises events to help you settle in the Netherlands and expand your social network in Delft. A Dual Career Programme is available to support your accompanying partner with their job search in the Netherlands.