PhD position in the field of hard turning

Research area
For the last 10 years, the research in the field of hard turning at Chalmers University of Technology has led to a descriptive phenomenological model describing how the original microstructure of a metallic material is transformed into a nano-sized microstructure during hard turning operation. Moreover, it has been possible to reveal the presence on different types of surfaces which possess significantly different properties. Depending on the processing parameters, it was possible to determine the formation of different types of surfaces / microstructures that have significantly different properties.

This research project is now focusing on improving the hard turning process to intentionally create a certain type of nano-sized microstructure that is believed to exceed the material's original microstructure prior to hard turning. The research project will involve a multidisciplinary approach that includes materials science and manufacturing technology.

Project description
This research project will be performed at the Division of Materials and Manufacture at the Department of Industrial and Materials Science (IMS)/Chalmers and in close collaboration with Research Institutes Of Sweden (RISE) in Mölndal. You will work closely with researchers in academia, institute, and experts in industry to develop a methodology for how to create high-strength nano-sized microstructures for two different steels, namely AISI 52100 and Hybrid Steels, during the hard turning process to improve the surface strength and improve the process robustness. This project links materials science and machining technology and will require the PhD student to work on both advanced materials characterization using for example scanning and transmission electron microscopy (SEM/TEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) as well as studying the cutting process involving the cutting tool progress and cutting forces. The well-founded material and manufacturing knowledge is a basic prerequisite for the design of high-strength nano-sized surfaces on the workpiece material.

Major responsibilities
Your main responsibility as a PhD student is to pursue your doctoral studies within the framework of the outlined research project. You are expected to develop your own ideas and communicate scientific results orally as well as in written form. In addition, the position includes 10% departmental work, mostly as a teaching assistant in Chalmers' undergraduate and masters-level courses.

The project focuses on material characterization using scanning and transmission electron microscopy (SEM / TEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) in order to understand the development of the microstructure during the hard turning process. As part of the work, you will be involved in understanding the stability of such microstructures, which means also characterizing the microstructures after exposure to various mechanical and thermal treatments. In order to theoretically describe the thermodynamic and kinetic conditions involved in the formation of such structures, you will use ThermoCalc and Dictra simulation tools. This project is closely related to the manufacturing sector, especially metal cutting, so you need to learn the theory about hard turning and metal cutting in general.

Contract terms
Full-time temporary employment. The position is limited to a maximum of five years.
This is a fully-funded position with a competitive salary, and social benefits according to Swedish standards. We offer excellent working conditions, and access to world-class facilities and infrastructure.

We offer
Chalmers offers a cultivating and inspiring working environment in the dynamic city of Gothenburg. 
Read more about working at Chalmers and our benefits for employees.

Application procedure
To apply, please go to: https://www.chalmers.se/en/about-chalmers/Working-at-Chalmers/Vacancies/Pages/default.aspx?rmpage=job&rmjob=9578

Application deadline: 20 June, 2021