PhD Position Equilibrium Behavior of Tramp Elements for Green Steel Production

Job description

The transition to low-carbon steel production is one of the key challenges in modern industry. At Tata Steel IJmuiden, this transition involves replacing the traditional blast furnace route with Direct Reduction, Electric Arc Furnaces (EAF), and, in a later stage, a Reducing Electric Furnace (REF). While these technologies enable significant CO₂ reduction, they introduce new challenges—most notably the accumulation of “tramp elements” from scrap and variable feedstocks, which can negatively affect steel quality and slag usability.

This PhD project aims to develop a fundamental thermodynamic understanding of how tramp and trace elements distribute between molten steel, slag, and vapor under next-generation steelmaking conditions. The research will focus on experimentally determining equilibrium partitioning behavior across relevant temperature, composition, and redox conditions, and translating these insights into predictive models for industrial application.

You will design and conduct high-temperature equilibration experiments using advanced gas-mixing furnaces at TU Delft and partner institutes. Samples will be analysed using state-of-the-art techniques such as laser ablation ICP-MS and electron microscopy to quantify trace element distributions at high spatial resolution. The resulting data will be integrated into thermodynamic models (e.g. FACTSage-based approaches) to support process optimisation and control in industrial steelmaking.

The project is carried out in close collaboration with Tata Steel R&D and academic partners, offering a unique opportunity to work at the interface of fundamental science and industrial application. You will contribute directly to the development of green steelmaking technologies while gaining expertise in high-temperature materials science, thermodynamics, and advanced analytical techniques.

Your profile

We are looking for a highly motivated candidate with a Master’s degree in Materials Science, Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, Geoscience, or a related field. A strong interest in thermodynamics, high-temperature processes, and experimental work is essential. Experience with analytical techniques or modelling is an advantage.

• Design and perform high-temperature equilibrium experiments to study tramp element partitioning between steel, slag, and vapor phases
• Analyse experimental samples using advanced techniques (e.g. LA-ICP-MS, SEM/EDS) to quantify trace element distributions
• Develop and interpret thermodynamic datasets describing element behavior under EAF and REF conditions
• Integrate experimental results into thermochemical models (e.g. FACTSage) to support process simulation and optimisation
• Collaborate with researchers at TU Delft and Tata Steel IJmuiden, and communicate findings through reports and scientific publications

Job requirements

• MSc degree in Experimental Petrology, Materials Science, Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, Geoscience, or a closely related field
• Strong interest in thermodynamics, high-temperature processes, and experimental research
• Affinity with or experience in laboratory work and materials characterization techniques (e.g. SEM, ICP-MS)
• Basic knowledge of thermodynamic modelling or willingness to learn tools such as FACTSage
• Analytical mindset with strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in an interdisciplinary team
• Good communication skills in English (written and spoken)
• Motivation to engage with both academic research at TU Delft and industrial application at Tata Steel IJmuiden

TU Delft (Delft University of Technology)
Working at TU Delft means contributing to solutions that really make a difference.

For over 180 years, we have been training engineers who make an impact worldwide in companies, government bodies, or as entrepreneurs. Our alumni turn knowledge into concrete solutions for the challenges of today and tomorrow. These challenges are changing rapidly. That is why we focus on themes such as energy, climate, digitalisation, artificial intelligence (AI), and smart mobility every day. Our education and research are directly aligned with what society needs now and in the future.

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 join an international community of professionals and students. Together, we create knowledge, innovations, and solutions that help move the world forward.

Faculty Aerospace Engineering
The Faculty of Aerospace Engineering at Delft University of Technology is a leading international community where innovation in aerospace meets global challenges. Our support and scientific staff, including PhD candidates, postdocs, and students, largely work together on three main themes: the energy transition, sustainable aerospace, and safety and security, with the aim of tackling climate change and contributing to the independence and security of Europe.

When you join us, you become part of a diverse, collaborative, and forward-thinking environment where your ideas and perspectives are valued. Our work extends beyond the lab—into field labs, innovation hubs, and partnerships with other faculties, research institutes, governments, and industry, both locally and globally.

We are committed to fostering an inclusive and welcoming workplace, assisted by an active Diversity & Inclusion team. This includes tangible support such as funding for extra personnel for family and caregiving responsibilities, mentoring programmes, and initiatives that promote cultural exchange and integration.

You don’t just join our faculty — you join a community where you can thrive, grow, and help shape the future of aerospace.

Click here to go to the website of the Faculty of Aerospace Engineering.

PhD Position Equilibrium Behavior of Tramp Elements for Green Steel Production

Job description

The transition to low-carbon steel production is one of the key challenges in modern industry. At Tata Steel IJmuiden, this transition involves replacing the traditional blast furnace route with Direct Reduction, Electric Arc Furnaces (EAF), and, in a later stage, a Reducing Electric Furnace (REF). While these technologies enable significant CO₂ reduction, they introduce new challenges—most notably the accumulation of “tramp elements” from scrap and variable feedstocks, which can negatively affect steel quality and slag usability.

This PhD project aims to develop a fundamental thermodynamic understanding of how tramp and trace elements distribute between molten steel, slag, and vapor under next-generation steelmaking conditions. The research will focus on experimentally determining equilibrium partitioning behavior across relevant temperature, composition, and redox conditions, and translating these insights into predictive models for industrial application.

You will design and conduct high-temperature equilibration experiments using advanced gas-mixing furnaces at TU Delft and partner institutes. Samples will be analysed using state-of-the-art techniques such as laser ablation ICP-MS and electron microscopy to quantify trace element distributions at high spatial resolution. The resulting data will be integrated into thermodynamic models (e.g. FACTSage-based approaches) to support process optimisation and control in industrial steelmaking.

The project is carried out in close collaboration with Tata Steel R&D and academic partners, offering a unique opportunity to work at the interface of fundamental science and industrial application. You will contribute directly to the development of green steelmaking technologies while gaining expertise in high-temperature materials science, thermodynamics, and advanced analytical techniques.

Your profile

We are looking for a highly motivated candidate with a Master’s degree in Materials Science, Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, Geoscience, or a related field. A strong interest in thermodynamics, high-temperature processes, and experimental work is essential. Experience with analytical techniques or modelling is an advantage.

• Design and perform high-temperature equilibrium experiments to study tramp element partitioning between steel, slag, and vapor phases
• Analyse experimental samples using advanced techniques (e.g. LA-ICP-MS, SEM/EDS) to quantify trace element distributions
• Develop and interpret thermodynamic datasets describing element behavior under EAF and REF conditions
• Integrate experimental results into thermochemical models (e.g. FACTSage) to support process simulation and optimisation
• Collaborate with researchers at TU Delft and Tata Steel IJmuiden, and communicate findings through reports and scientific publications

Job requirements

• MSc degree in Experimental Petrology, Materials Science, Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, Geoscience, or a closely related field
• Strong interest in thermodynamics, high-temperature processes, and experimental research
• Affinity with or experience in laboratory work and materials characterization techniques (e.g. SEM, ICP-MS)
• Basic knowledge of thermodynamic modelling or willingness to learn tools such as FACTSage
• Analytical mindset with strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in an interdisciplinary team
• Good communication skills in English (written and spoken)
• Motivation to engage with both academic research at TU Delft and industrial application at Tata Steel IJmuiden

TU Delft (Delft University of Technology)
Working at TU Delft means contributing to solutions that really make a difference.

For over 180 years, we have been training engineers who make an impact worldwide in companies, government bodies, or as entrepreneurs. Our alumni turn knowledge into concrete solutions for the challenges of today and tomorrow. These challenges are changing rapidly. That is why we focus on themes such as energy, climate, digitalisation, artificial intelligence (AI), and smart mobility every day. Our education and research are directly aligned with what society needs now and in the future.

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 join an international community of professionals and students. Together, we create knowledge, innovations, and solutions that help move the world forward.

Faculty Aerospace Engineering
The Faculty of Aerospace Engineering at Delft University of Technology is a leading international community where innovation in aerospace meets global challenges. Our support and scientific staff, including PhD candidates, postdocs, and students, largely work together on three main themes: the energy transition, sustainable aerospace, and safety and security, with the aim of tackling climate change and contributing to the independence and security of Europe.

When you join us, you become part of a diverse, collaborative, and forward-thinking environment where your ideas and perspectives are valued. Our work extends beyond the lab—into field labs, innovation hubs, and partnerships with other faculties, research institutes, governments, and industry, both locally and globally.

We are committed to fostering an inclusive and welcoming workplace, assisted by an active Diversity & Inclusion team. This includes tangible support such as funding for extra personnel for family and caregiving responsibilities, mentoring programmes, and initiatives that promote cultural exchange and integration.

You don’t just join our faculty — you join a community where you can thrive, grow, and help shape the future of aerospace.

Click here to go to the website of the Faculty of Aerospace Engineering.

Corporate Woordvoerder

Functieomschrijving

TU Delft is op zoek naar een ervaren en proactieve corporate woordvoerder om het huidige persteam te komen versterken. Je wordt onderdeel van een enthousiast team, waar je samen met je collega corporate woordvoerder (en sparringpartner) de mediastrategie (verder) ontwikkelt en uitvoert, de (lopende) dossiers verdeelt, het College van Bestuur adviseert (onder andere bij de besluitvorming over complexe of politiek gevoelige onderwerpen) en tegelijkertijd de handen vrijhoudt om proactief nieuwsverhalen te pluggen in de media. Daarbij werk je samen met wetenschapsvoorlichters, het webteam, communicatiecollega’s (o.a. van de verschillende faculteiten) en, daar waar het gaat om beleidsbeïnvloeders, met de collega’s van Public Affairs en issue-/en omgevingsmanagement.

Als corporate woordvoerders ben je samen verantwoordelijk voor de mediastrategie en medeverantwoordelijk voor de positionering van de universiteit. Je voert regelmatig overleg met de directie en het College van Bestuur en adviseert over communicatieve, publicitaire en bestuurlijke aspecten. Daarbij krijg je te maken met de hectiek van het woordvoerderschap, maar door hier samen met je collega-woordvoerder invulling aan te geven, weet je naast de waan van de dag proactief in te spelen op kansen en trends. Ook bouw je structureel mee aan de strategische communicatie rond diverse (speciale) projecten en actuele thema’s.

Bij TU Delft hebben wij eigen mediatrainingen ontwikkeld. In wisselende samenstellingen geven we deze mediatraining aan onze eigen medewerkers. Ook dit is onderdeel van het takenpakket.

We zoeken een ervaren professional met ruime ervaring op het gebied van corporate- en/of bestuurswoordvoering. Een netwerker en een verbinder met een neus voor nieuws en een goed ontwikkeld gevoel voor politiek-bestuurlijke en maatschappelijke verhoudingen. Jij bent een stevige en daadkrachtige adviseur en sparringpartner voor het College van Bestuur, directie en management binnen de TU, maar ook voor je teamgenoten en andere collega’s. Een dynamische omgeving past goed bij jou en je kunt de organisatie en planning van je werk daarop aanpassen. Je kunt goed de inhoud in duiken om zo brede kennis op te bouwen op de voor TU Delft relevante issues. Netwerken en samenwerken is voor jou vanzelfsprekend en je weet daardoor snel de juiste mensen binnen en buiten de organisatie te vinden en te verbinden. Je bent op de hoogte van de recente ontwikkelingen in het communicatievak en weet die te vertalen naar de dagelijkse praktijk. Je kent het medialandschap op je duimpje en vindt het belangrijk om je medianetwerk goed te onderhouden en proactief te voorzien van nieuws.

Functie-eisen

• Ten minste vijf jaar aantoonbare ervaring als woordvoerder van directie/bestuur en senior management, liefst in een publiek georiënteerde organisatie.
• Aantoonbare ervaring met woordvoering en advisering/ondersteuning van bestuurders bij mediaoptredens op een landelijk niveau (krant, radio, actualiteitenprogramma’s) en je hebt een breed media-netwerk.
• Ruime ervaring met coördinatie van verschillende communicatiewerkzaamheden (incl. mediaverzoeken).
• Ruime ervaring met mediamonitoring en -analyse.
• Een brede achtergrond als communicatieprofessional en zeer ervaren met externe communicatie.
• Gevoel voor en aantoonbare ervaring met politiek-bestuurlijke sensitiviteit
• Uitstekende spreek- en schrijfvaardigheid in Nederlands en Engels.
• Je beschikt over de volgende competenties: organisatiesensitiviteit, analyseren, overtuigingskracht, netwerken, omgevingsbewustzijn, plannen en organiseren, creativiteit.

TU Delft
Werken bij TU Delft betekent bijdragen aan oplossingen die er echt toe doen.

Al meer dan 180 jaar leiden we ingenieurs op die wereldwijd impact maken bij bedrijven, overheden of als ondernemer. Onze alumni zetten kennis om in concrete oplossingen voor de uitdagingen van vandaag en morgen. Die uitdagingen veranderen snel. Daarom werken we elke dag aan thema’s zoals energie, klimaat, digitalisering, AI en slimme mobiliteit. Ons onderwijs en onderzoek sluiten direct aan op wat de samenleving nodig heeft, nu en straks.

Bij TU Delft maken mensen het verschil. Met hun kennis en nieuwsgierigheid zorgen zij voor sterk onderwijs, vernieuwend onderzoek en innovaties die verder komen dan de campus. Je krijgt de ruimte om initiatief te nemen, samen te werken en jezelf te ontwikkelen. Wie bij TU Delft werkt, sluit zich aan bij een internationale community van professionals en studenten. Samen bouwen we aan kennis, innovatie en oplossingen die de wereld vooruithelpen.

Universiteitsdienst – Directie Communicatie
Impact voor een betere samenleving; dat is de missie van TU Delft. De Marketing & Communicatiemedewerkers van de directie Communication dragen daar steeds meer ‘accountable’ aan bij en daar zijn ze trots op! We begeleiden onze 28.000 studenten in hun ‘engineer journey’ van studiekiezers tot en met professionals in de maatschappij. Binnen de wetenschapscommunicatie benadrukken we de vraagstukken en onderzoeksresultaten in de maatschappelijke thema’s Klimaatactie, Energietransitie, Digitale Samenleving, Veerkrachtige Steden & Mobiliteit, en Gezondheid. Vanuit TU Delft Campus leggen we de verbinding naar bedrijven en beleidsmakers in ons innovatieve ecosysteem, waar onderzoeksresultaten versneld hun weg naar de samenleving vinden. En onder het motto #BetterTUgether! verbinden we onze bijna 8.000 TU Delft-collega’s. Zo versterken we samen het merk TU Delft, dat staat voor grensverleggend onderzoek, excellent onderwijs en baanbrekende innovaties.

Postdoc Theoretical Biophysics Sars-Cov2

Job description

The Sars-Covid virus genomic RNA encodes a small number of structural proteins, one of which is the N-protein. This N-protein plays a strong role in packaging the genomic RNA; yet, how this packaging process works and how the N-protein manages to selectively pack genomic RNA is not well-understood. We will study this selective packaging theoretically, in tight collaboration with experimental groups. The theoretical methods include stochastic modelling, MD simulation, and Bayesian inference; the position will also include joint collaborative projects with other group members and our experimental colleagues. A desire to develop the direction of your project is very welcome!

Job requirements

• Masters in Physics, Computer Science, Nanobiology, Mathematics, Bioengineering or a related discipline
• PhD in Physics, Applied Science, or a related discipline
• Experience in statistical physics, stochastic processes and/or data analysis methods
• Strong interest in engaging and collaborating with experimental colleagues

TU Delft (Delft University of Technology)
Working at TU Delft means contributing to solutions that really make a difference.

For over 180 years, we have been training engineers who make an impact worldwide in companies, government bodies, or as entrepreneurs. Our alumni turn knowledge into concrete solutions for the challenges of today and tomorrow. These challenges are changing rapidly. That is why we focus on themes such as energy, climate, digitalisation, artificial intelligence (AI), and smart mobility every day. Our education and research are directly aligned with what society needs now and in the future.

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 join an international community of professionals and students. Together, we create knowledge, innovations, and solutions that help move the world forward.

Faculty Applied Sciences
With more than 1,100 employees, including 150 pioneering principal investigators, as well as a population of about 3,600 passionate students, the Faculty of Applied Sciences is an inspiring scientific ecosystem. Focusing on key enabling technologies, such as quantum- and nanotechnology, photonics, biotechnology, synthetic biology and materials for energy storage and conversion, our faculty aims to provide solutions to important problems of the 21st century. To that end, we educate innovative students in broad Bachelor's and specialist Master's programmes with a strong research component. Our scientists conduct ground-breaking fundamental and applied research in the fields of Life and Health Science & Technology, Nanoscience, Chemical Engineering, Radiation Science & Technology, and Engineering Physics. We are also training the next generation of high school teachers.

Click here to go to the website of the Faculty of Applied Sciences.

Postdoc Theoretical Biophysics Sars-Cov2

Job description

The Sars-Covid virus genomic RNA encodes a small number of structural proteins, one of which is the N-protein. This N-protein plays a strong role in packaging the genomic RNA; yet, how this packaging process works and how the N-protein manages to selectively pack genomic RNA is not well-understood. We will study this selective packaging theoretically, in tight collaboration with experimental groups. The theoretical methods include stochastic modelling, MD simulation, and Bayesian inference; the position will also include joint collaborative projects with other group members and our experimental colleagues. A desire to develop the direction of your project is very welcome!

Job requirements

• Masters in Physics, Computer Science, Nanobiology, Mathematics, Bioengineering or a related discipline
• PhD in Physics, Applied Science, or a related discipline
• Experience in statistical physics, stochastic processes and/or data analysis methods
• Strong interest in engaging and collaborating with experimental colleagues

TU Delft (Delft University of Technology)
Working at TU Delft means contributing to solutions that really make a difference.

For over 180 years, we have been training engineers who make an impact worldwide in companies, government bodies, or as entrepreneurs. Our alumni turn knowledge into concrete solutions for the challenges of today and tomorrow. These challenges are changing rapidly. That is why we focus on themes such as energy, climate, digitalisation, artificial intelligence (AI), and smart mobility every day. Our education and research are directly aligned with what society needs now and in the future.

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 join an international community of professionals and students. Together, we create knowledge, innovations, and solutions that help move the world forward.

Faculty Applied Sciences
With more than 1,100 employees, including 150 pioneering principal investigators, as well as a population of about 3,600 passionate students, the Faculty of Applied Sciences is an inspiring scientific ecosystem. Focusing on key enabling technologies, such as quantum- and nanotechnology, photonics, biotechnology, synthetic biology and materials for energy storage and conversion, our faculty aims to provide solutions to important problems of the 21st century. To that end, we educate innovative students in broad Bachelor's and specialist Master's programmes with a strong research component. Our scientists conduct ground-breaking fundamental and applied research in the fields of Life and Health Science & Technology, Nanoscience, Chemical Engineering, Radiation Science & Technology, and Engineering Physics. We are also training the next generation of high school teachers.

Click here to go to the website of the Faculty of Applied Sciences.