Phd Position

You would like to use your engineering skills to make an effective contribution to solving the major challenges facing society? You would like to be involved in designing, developing and manufacturing scientific and technical devices, systems and processes for which no technical or commercial solution yet exists? Then join us at the Central Institute for Engineering and Technology (ZEA-1).

**Your Job**:
The most powerful neutron source in the world, the European Spallation Neutron Source (ESS), is being built in Lund, Sweden. It is scheduled to begin operation in 2025. A key component of a neutron source is the so-called moderator, which is used to slow down high-energy neutrons released by the spallation reaction. The moderator is usually a complex, high-strength aluminum pressure vessels, which contains fluids and is exposed to a high level of radiation. Electron beam welding is the main joining process used to manufacture this kind of pressure vessels. The process properties of electron beam welding enable reliable and reproducible production of the pressure vessels, even when using aluminum alloys that are difficult to weld, such as the 6000 series. For metallurgical reasons, the use of welding filler is necessary for this alloy. This can lead to process influences and quality deviations. The aim of the advertised dissertation is the systematic investigation of factors influencing the welding process and characteristics of the joining zone of pressure vessels made of high-strength aluminum alloys considering the special features that occur proton and neutron irradiation. Your tasks in these exciting endeavors include:

- Investigation of the influencing factors
- Documentation of their significance for the quality of the components
- Identification of quality-improving solutions
- In-depth literature research about the topic
- Theoretical analyses such as thermo-mechanical simulations

**Your Profile**:

- Successfully completed Master's degree in the field of mechanical engineering with a focus on joining or materials technology or comparable
- Good knowledge in the field of beam welding processes; ideally electron beam welding
- Sound knowledge in the field of aluminum alloys desirable
- Experience in the use of software for engineering design such as CAD and FEM
- Interest in experimental work, the design and construction of test devices and the supervision of test runs
- High degree of initiative and ability to work in an international team
- Ability for collaborative work, interdisciplinary and cross-topical thinking
- Very good communication skills in spoken and written German and English are essential

**Our Offer**:
We work on the very latest issues that impact our society and are offering you the chance to actively help in shaping the change We offer ideal conditions for you to complete your doctoral degree:

- A highly motivated working group as well as an international and interdisciplinary working environment at one of Europe’s largest research establishments
- Outstanding scientific and technical infrastructure
- Opportunity to participate in (international) conferences and project meetings
- Continuous scientific mentoring by your scientific advisor
- Targeted services for international employees, e.g. through our International Advisory Service
- Flexible work (location) arrangements, e.g. remote work
30 days of annual leave and provision for days off between public holidays and weekends (e.g. between Christmas and New Year)

The position is for a fixed term of 3 years. Pay in line with 75 % of pay group 13 of the Collective Agreement for the Public Service (TVöD-Bund) and additionally 60 % of a monthly salary as special payment („Christmas bonus“).