Postdoc Researcher on Carburization and Melting Mechanism …, Delft

Job description Join TU Delft’s contribution to the “Groeien met Groen Staal (GGS)” programme and accelerate the transition to CO2-neutral steelmaking. As a postdoctoral researcher, in collaboration with Tata Steel Netherlands you will develop innovative carburization and melting strategies for hydrogen‑based direct reduced iron (DRI) under ref‑furnace (REF) operating conditions. At TU Delft, you will contribute to a transformative national initiative: the “Groeien met Groen Staal (GGS)” programme. Within this ambitious project, you will play a key role in advancing hydrogen‑based steelmaking by addressingone of its central challenges: how to efficiently carburize and melt H‑DRI in reduced electric furnace (REF) operations. Working at the forefront of sustainable metallurgy, you will combine experimental research and fundamental insights to unlock new process routes that support a circular and CO2‑neutral steel industry by 2050.

Responsibilities

Explore carbonaceous materials that can be used in the REF process.

Evaluate the graphitization degree of carbonaceous materials and select those suitable for laboratory‑scale experiments.

Design and perform lab‑scale experiments to determine the wetting behaviour between selected carbonaceous materials and complex iron systems.

Design and perform lab‑scale experiments to investigate the carburization and melting behaviour of complex iron.

Collaborate with researchers within department MSE and Tata Steel Netherlands, contributing to joint research activities and knowledge exchange.

Contribute to scientific publications, conference presentations, and the development of new research proposals in the field of green steel.

Work environment You will be part of the Metals Production, Refining and Recycling (MPRR) section at TU Delft, where cutting‑edge research is conducted to optimize resource efficiency and reduce environmental impacts in metal industries. The MPRR research team specializes in the elucidation of reaction mechanisms and kinetics using experimental studies and process modelling and simulation. The team bridges fundamentalscience with practical, real‑world applications, contributing to circular economy innovations. At MPRR, we work closely every day to strengthen the group through each member’s growth, fostering a collaborative culture without rigid hierarchies and plenty of opportunities for professional and academic development. You’ll also collaborate with scientists from the GGS programme and Tata Steel Netherlands; colleagues passionate about green steel and sustainability.

Job requirements We are looking for a self‑motivated researcher to help developing new technologies for green steel production. You are able to work independently while also collaborating effectively with colleagues and industry partners, and are willing to engage in a multidisciplinary research environment.

You hold a PhD degree in chemical, metallurgical or materials engineering, or a closey related field.

You have sound knowledge in pyrometallurgical fundamentals, and are acquainted with ironmaking and steelmaking technologies.

You have experience with advanced characterization and image analysis tools. Particularly, knowledge on the following tools; SEM‑EDS, TEM, and EPMA is a big plus.

You are familiar with designing and conducting high‑temperature experiments and are familiar with using furnaces and reacting gases (in particular O2, H2, CO/CO2 and natural gas).

You have excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.

You have a strong track record in scientific research, as evidenced by publications in international peer‑reviewed journals and conference participation.

Conditions of employment

Duration of contract is 3 years. Temporary.

A job of 38-40 hours per week.

Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities.

An excellent pension scheme via the ABP.

The possibility to compile an individual employment package every year.

Discount with health insurers on supplemental packages.

Flexible working week.

Every year, 232 leave hours (at 38 hours). You can also sell or buy additional leave hours via the individual choice budget.

Plenty of opportunities for education, training and courses.

Partially paid parental leave.

Attention for working healthy and energetically with the vitality program.

We are an equal‑opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive fair consideration.

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