PhD Student Position in Crack Arrest Toughness Evaluation
The Paul Scherrer Institute PSI, a leading research centre for natural and engineering sciences in Switzerland, is committed to the education of future generations by training young researchers.
We are the largest research institute for natural and engineering sciences within Switzerland, performing cutting-edge research in matter and materials, energy and environment, and human health. Our work focuses on sustainable solutions for major societal challenges, science, and economy. Approximately one quarter of our staff are post-docs, post-graduates, or apprentices, totaling 2300 employees.
The Structural Integrity Group investigates material ageing phenomena's influence on nuclear power plant component lifetime and structural integrity. To strengthen fatigue research, we seek a PhD Student to evaluate arrest toughness with standard and sub-sized specimens on unirradiated and neutron irradiated ferritic steel for nuclear applications.
Duties and Responsibilities:
* Conduct research on arrest toughness in the ductile to brittle transition region of unirradiated and irradiated ferritic steels for nuclear applications and write a PhD thesis.
* Develop innovative techniques to measure arrest toughness using standard and sub-sized specimens.
* Analyze crack path and arrest locations through fractographic observations.
* Model static and dynamic crack arrest conditions using finite element simulations.
* SUPERVISE semester students and/or internships.
* Publish results in scientific journals and at international conferences.
Requirements:
You must hold a Master's degree in Materials Science or Physics with a solid background in metallurgy. Practical experience in material testing and metallographic characterization is also required, as well as excellent communication skills in English. German language proficiency would be an asset.
Our Offer:
We offer an interdisciplinary, innovative, and dynamic collaboration environment. You will benefit from systematic job training, personal development opportunities, and our pronounced vocational training culture. We support you in combining work and family life or other personal interests with our modern employment conditions and on-site infrastructure.