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University: Norwegian University of Science and Technology
Location: Trondheim, Norway
Department: Department of Physics
Supervisor: Professor Ragnvald Mathiesen ([email protected])
Application Deadline: March 30, 2026
Position Overview
NTNU invites applications for a three-year PhD position in Materials Physics within SFI FAST – Future Aluminium Structures, a national Centre for Research-based Innovation funded by the Research Council of Norway and the aluminium industry.
The project focuses on phase formation, microstructure evolution, and defect formation in high-pressure die casting of recycled aluminium alloys, aiming to advance sustainable metal manufacturing and circular aluminium economy practices in Europe.
The PhD candidate will work closely with NTNU and SINTEF researchers, as well as leading industrial partners across the aluminium value chain. Research combines state-of-the-art experimental techniques with industrially relevant questions on the use of post-consumer scrap in structural aluminium components.
The starting date is August or September 2026, with flexibility considered.
Research Focus
Key areas of research include:
- Advanced experimental studies using X-ray imaging, scattering, and electron microscopy to investigate porosity, inclusions, solute segregation, and microstructure evolution
- High-throughput data analysis and development of tools for experiment management
- Effect of alloy composition and process parameters on the integrity and performance of aluminium components
- Collaboration with industrial partners to optimize alloy design and processing strategies
SFI FAST aims to establish knowledge for large-scale use of post-consumer scrap in high-value aluminium products. The centre integrates materials science, manufacturing processes, structural design, and lifecycle performance, and will educate PhD, postdoctoral, and MSc researchers.
Duties
As a PhD candidate, you will:
- Complete the PhD education program
- Conduct high-quality research and publish in peer-reviewed journals
- Participate in international conferences and research stays
- Perform advanced studies using X-ray and electron microscopy
- Analyse data and develop new analysis tools
- Contribute to SFI FAST WP2 team objectives
- Collaborate with NTNU, SINTEF, and industrial partners
Required Qualifications
- Master’s degree in Physics, Nanotechnology, Materials Science, or equivalent (120 ECTS)
- Strong academic record (average grade B or better)
- Eligibility for admission to NTNU’s Doctoral Programme in Physics
- Good oral and written English skills
- Experience with experimental work in physics, nanotechnology, or materials science
- Basic programming skills
Preferred Qualifications:
- Competence in X-ray imaging, diffraction, or electron microscopy (TEM preferred)
- Knowledge of metal/alloy processing and solidification microstructure formation
- Experience with industrial research projects
- Data processing and analysis skills
Personal qualities:
- Independent and structured working style
- Ability to set goals and adapt plans flexibly
- Constructive collaboration with researchers and industry partners
- Strong motivation to complete a PhD
Employment and Benefits
- Position code 1017: PhD Candidate
- Gross salary: NOK 550,800 per annum (2% statutory pension contribution)
- Employment period: 3 years
- Conditional on external funding
- Participation in organized doctoral program required
- Access to state-of-the-art instruments, TEM Gemini Centre / NORTEM Trondheim node
- Career guidance and professional development
- Inclusive, international research environment with industrial collaboration
- Member benefits from the Norwegian Public Service Pension Fund (SPK)
Application Requirements
Applications must be submitted electronically via Jobbnorge.no and include:
- CV
- Transcripts and diplomas for Master’s degree (preliminary transcript if ongoing)
- Master’s thesis (or draft if not yet submitted)
- Examples of other relevant academic work
- Certificates (if applicable)
- Names and contact information for three referees
- Documentation of foreign education quality and diploma supplements (if applicable)
All documents should be in English or Norwegian, with translations for other languages. Joint research contributions should be explained.
Contact Information
- Professor Ragnvald Mathiesen: [email protected]
- Professor Randi Holmestad: [email protected]
- HR Consultant: Anja Isaksen – [email protected]
Application Deadline: March 30, 2026
The position offers an exceptional opportunity to contribute to sustainable aluminium production while gaining experience with cutting-edge experimental methods and industrial applications in an international research environment.
Apply now at: https://www.jobbnorge.no/en/available-jobs/job/296781/sfi-fast-phd-candidate-in-materials-physics
