About this role
Help us predict how grain orientations and mechanical fields evolve during plastic deformation of metals. We are seeking a modeller with a passion for modelling, mechanics and materials science. You will use first-of-its-kind experimental data to validate the simulations and improve the models.
You will join an international, highly multidisciplinary team of approximately 8 PhD students and postdocs working in close collaboration across DTU Construct and DTU Physics. Our goal is to understand and predict the mechanical behaviour of metals during plastic deformation. We combine dislocation dynamics and crystal plasticity simulations with synchrotron experiments providing direct images of microstructural evolution.
Your main focus will be crystal plasticity modelling to predict microstructural evolution and mechanical fields. You will also have the opportunity to participate in synchrotron experiments and understand how the experimental data used in your modelling are obtained.
Responsibilities and qualifications
Your responsibilities concern two different applications of crystal plasticity.
- Use crystal plasticity to predict the evolution of grain orientations and stress states during deformation. Compare these predictions with first-of-its-kind 3D maps of voids, particles, grain orientations and stress states obtained from synchrotron experiments. Identify the conditions under which predictions are poor and implement improvements to the model.
- Model the formation of patterns of dislocation boundaries at scales below those normally addressed by crystal plasticity by incorporating stochastic elements into the simulations.
Qualifications
- Experience with crystal plasticity simulations is a strong asset
- Background in materials science, mechanics, or physics
- Programming skills, enabling you to modify existing crystal plasticity code
- Ability to collaborate effectively in an international, multidisciplinary research team
As a formal qualification, you must hold a PhD degree (or equivalent).
We offer
DTU is a leading technical university globally recognized for the excellence of its research, education, innovation and scientific advice. We offer a rewarding and challenging job in an international environment. We strive for academic excellence in an environment characterized by collegial respect and academic freedom tempered by responsibility.
Salary and terms of employment
The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. In addition, supplements can be negotiated in accordance with DTU’s salary structure for scientific staff: www.inside.dtu.dk/en/human-resources/during-employment/salary/salary-structures.
The period of employment is 2 years. The position is a full-time position.
Starting date is 1 February 2027 or according to mutual agreement.
You can read more about career paths at DTU here.
Further information
Further information may be obtained from Prof. Grethe Winther ([email protected]), DTU Construct, and Prof. Henning Friis Poulsen ([email protected]), DTU Physics.
You can read more about Department of Civil and Mechanical Engineering at www.construct.dtu.dk
If you are applying from abroad, you may find useful information on working in Denmark and at DTU at DTU – Moving to Denmark.
Application procedure
Your complete online application must be submitted no later than 3 December 2026 (23:59 Danish time).
Applications must be submitted as one PDF file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please open the link "Apply now", fill out the online application form, and attach all your materials in English in one PDF file. The file must include:
- Application (cover letter)
- CV
- Academic Diplomas (MSc/PhD – in English)
- List of publications
Applications received after the deadline will not be considered.
All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, disability, race, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply. As DTU works with research in critical technology, which is subject to special rules for security and export control, open-source background checks may be conducted on qualified candidates for the position.
DTU Civil and Mechanical Engineering develops and utilises science and technical knowledge for the benefit of society and the sustainable development. We undertake research, education, innovation, and scientific advice of the highest quality within building design and processes, building construction and safety, building energy and technical services, solid mechanics, fluid mechanics, coastal and maritime engineering, materials technology, manufacturing engineering, engineering systems design, design for sustainability, and thermal energy.
DTU – For the benefit of society since 1829
DTU is one of Europe's leading elite technical universities. Through research and education at an international top level, we create solutions to the major societal challenges of our time and help secure Europe's global leadership in sustainable technological development. Since Hans Christian Ørsted founded DTU almost 200 years ago, our mission has remained the same: We develop and create value through the natural and technical sciences for the benefit of society. DTU has 13,800 students, 1,600 PhD students, and 6,500 employees. We work in an international environment and have an inclusive, stimulating, and informal work culture. DTU has campuses in all parts of Denmark and in Greenland and collaborates with the best universities around the world.