PhD scholarship in dark field X-ray microscopy of energy materials

At DTU, we have developed a hard X-ray equivalent of the Transmission Electron Microscope. Uniquely, the new methodology enables zooming deep into large specimens to acquire 3D movies of the dynamics of structure change, e.g. of the evolution of phases, grains, domains and local stress.

DTU Energy Conversion in collaboration with DTU Physics is offering a three-year PhD position to use this microscope to visualize and understand the physics of domains in functional materials: fundamental research but with a view to applications in fuel cells, batteries and/or other energy devices. The position is open to be filled as soon as possible.

The microscope is placed at the European Synchrotron Radiation Facility, ESRF, in Grenoble. We are in the process of hiring a larger team around the microscope, with a view also to materials modeling.

We offer
A challenging job description with the opportunity to help pioneer a new research field within advanced microscopy. An international cross-disciplinary environment. Access to ESRF and to a range of state-of-the-art facilities at DTU to supplement the synchrotron experiments.

Job description
Your main task will be to design and conduct X-ray microscopy experiments, analyse data, compare to theory and advance the fields of transmission X-ray microscopy and energy materials. As part of the microscopy team, a fraction of the time will be devoted to joint work on advancing the technique in terms of instrumentation and/or development of new algorithms.

For your research you will also identify ideal energy material systems related to fuel cells, batteries or other energy conversion devices where the new microscope can to answer questions that current technology is unable to. Based on current knowledge you will perform the first systematic transmission X-ray microscopy studies to fill these knowledge gaps.

Qualifications

A Master’s degree in physics, mechanical engineering materials science or similar
Interest in and experience with challenging experimental work
Clearly demonstrated computer programming skills
Preferably an understanding of solid state physics and the use of X-rays
Ability to work independently, to plan and carry out complicated tasks, and to be a part of a large, dynamical group
Good communication skills in English, both written and spoken

Salary and terms of appointment
The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Confederation of Professional Associations. The allowance will be agreed with the relevant union.

The candidate is expected to start in December 2014 or as soon as possible thereafter.

Further information
Please contact Head of section Luise Theil Kuhn, +45 46774712, luku@dtu.dk, Senior researcher Jacob Bowen, +45 21328382, jrbo@dtu.dk, or Professor Henning Friis Poulsen, +45 23396938, hfpo@fysik.dtu.dk for further information.

Please do not send applications to these e-mail addresses, instead apply online as described below.

Application
Please submit your online application no later than 5 November, 2014.

Applications must be submitted as one PDF file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please open the link “Apply online,” fill in the online application form, and attach all your materials in English in one PDF file. The file must include:

Application (cover letter motivating your application)
CV
A list of bachelor and maters course grades according to the Danish grading system (see guidelines and excel spreadsheet here) (http://www.dtu.dk/english/Education/phd/Applicant/Pre_acceptance(1))

Applications and enclosures not in the requested format or received after the deadline will not be considered.

All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, race, disability, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply.

APPLY ONLINE
http://www.dtu.dk/english/career/

DTU Energy Conversion is focusing on functional materials and their application in sustainable energy technology. Our research areas include fuel cells, electrolysis, solar cells, magnetic refrigeration, superconductivity and thermoelectrics. Additional information about the department can be found on www.ecs.dtu.dk.

DTU is a technical university providing internationally leading research, education, innovation and public service. Our staff of 5,700 advances science and technology to create innovative solutions that meet the demands of society; and our 10,000 students are educated to address the technological challenges of the future. DTU is an independent academic university collaborating globally with business, industry, government, and public agencies