Postdoc in Self-consistent modelling for neutron scattering applications

Information about the research
The development and improvement of experimental methods to study the micro-scale mechanics of materials in-situ have in recent years opened up new possibilities for generating more detailed knowledge and understanding of the underlying physical processes. Once completed, the European Spallation Source (ESS) will greatly increase the possible time resolution during neutron scattering, facilitating true in-situ or in-operando measurements during thermo-mechanical loading. In order to fully harvest the potential in such measurements, it is vital to develop computational methods to allow detailed pre-test predictions of the experiments, and post-test analysis of the generated data. This is a cross-disciplinary venture, merging computational mechanics, materials science and applied physics.

You are therefore invited to apply for a post-doc position in self-consistent modelling for neutron scattering applications, shared by the Department of Physics (Division of Materials Microstructure) and the Department of Applied Mechanics (Division of Material and Computational Mechanics), Chalmers University of Technology, in Gothenburg, Sweden (www.chalmers.se).

Research environment
The research in the Division of Materials Microstructure is focused on understanding the relation between microstructure and properties of materials, and how the microstructure evolves during processing and operation. The goal is to provide knowledge that can be used to develop new materials and to optimize composition, production routes, heat treatment etc.  This is mainly achieved by applying advanced characterization tools such as electron microscopy and atom probe tomography, but we are currently actively expanding into the area of neutron and synchrotron light scattering for in-situ applications.

Research areas at the Division of Material and Computational Mechanics comprise the mechanical modeling of materials, components, structures and processes. The research is interdisciplinary, especially related to the development of design and experimental methodologies in our active fields: Lightweight materials and structures, Multi-phase materials, Process modelling and simulation, Railway mechanics and Structural mechanics.

Major responsibilities
Self-consistent modelling based on crystal plasticity is commonly used to analyze the detailed response of polycrystals to externally imposed deformation during neutron scattering experiments. The aim of the proposed post-doc project is to develop and implement a state-of-the-art self-consistent framework capable of handling the specific conditions occurring during high-temperature and thermo-mechanical deformation conditions, which will accessible at future ESS beamlines such as BEER. This includes phenomena such as time-dependence (stress relaxation, creep), varying temperatures, and complex strain paths in multi-phase engineering materials. Typical target materials are high-temperature alloys such as austenitic steels, precipitation strengthened superalloys and multi-component high entropy alloys. Another important part is the interface to experimental data and optimization routines for parameter estimation.

The post-doctoral experience offers an opportunity to qualify for a research career within academia or industry. Most of your working time will be spent on your own research; however, you are also expected to take part in the supervision of M.Sc. and Ph.D. students.

Position summary
Full-time temporary employment. The position is limited to a maximum of two years (1+1).

Qualifications
You should have a strong background in computational mechanics with a PhD degree from an internationally recognized university. Knowledge and research experience in continuum mechanics, material mechanics and multi-scale modeling of materials are absolutely essential. Experience in crystal plasticity and/or self-consistent models is a significant advantage. Since you will work together with researchers in Physics, insight into material science and in particular neutron diffraction experiments is also meritorious. You are expected to be able to work independently as well as in a group and to have good communication skills, including fluency in written and spoken English.

Chalmers continuously strives to be an attractive employer. Equality and diversity are substantial foundations in all activities at Chalmers.

Application procedure
The application should be marked with Ref 20160321 and written in English. The application should be sent electronically via Chalmers webpage.


Application deadline: 30 september 2016

For questions, please contact:
Assoc. prof. Magnus Hörnqvist Colliander,
Materials Microstructure,
magnus.colliander@chalmers.se,
+46 31 - 772 3306

Prof. Magnus Ekh,
Material and Computational Mechanics,
magnus.ekh@chalmers.se,
+46 31 - 772 3479

*** Chalmers declines to consider all offers of further announcement publishing or other types of support for the recruiting process in connection with this position. ***