Postdoc In Characterization Of White Layers In Hybrid 60 Steel

We are looking for a postdoc to join our team at the Division of Materials and Manufacturing, Department of Industrial and Materials Science, Chalmers University of Technology. Become part of our innovative group and contribute to exciting research combining materials characterization and manufacturing technology within a collaborative and dynamic environment.

About us

The Department of Industrial and Materials Science shares knowledge and their vision of technical solutions for the future industry in a sustainable society. Through excellent research, innovation, and education, we contribute to the development of future industrial value chains.

In the division of Materials and Manufacture you’ll join a friendly, international team passionate about shaping the future of materials and production. Our research spans innovative materials, advanced manufacturing, and sustainable solutions – always with real-world impact in mind, and with strong ties to industry. If you are interested in working experimentally and making a difference in the areas of materials and manufacturing, we look forward to receiving your application.

About the research project

The service life of high-performance steel components depends significantly on surface quality. Traditionally, these components are finished by grinding, a precise but energy-intensive process. Hard turning has recently established itself as a faster more energy-efficient alternative. During hard turning, high temperatures and mechanical forces act on the material surface. These conditions can alter the near-surface zone and form a modified layer, the so-called white layer. We are investigating white layers in Hybrid 60, a new steel grade with nanoprecipitates. The aim is to analyze the microstructure and thermal stability of the white layers and perform thermodynamic and kinetic analyses in order to develop a physics-based model for ultrahigh-strength surfaces produced by machining.

Who we are looking for

The following requirements are mandatory:

• A doctoral degree or an equivalent foreign degree. This eligibility requirement must be met no later than the time the employment decision is made
• Strong written and verbal communication skills in English
• Experience in electron microscopy (SEM and TEM, including sample preparation) and knowledge in machining
• Personal competences in accordance with the requirements profile including specification (e.g. social skills, meaning that you enjoy collaborating with others)

You are expected to be somewhat accustomed to teaching, and to demonstrate good potential within research and education.

The following experience will strengthen your application:

• A doctoral degree or an equivalent foreign degree, obtained within the last three years prior to the application deadline
• Experience with atom probe tomography and/or experiments at large-scale research facilities
• Knowledge in thermodynamic and kinetic analyses by use of e.g. Thermo-Calc, DICTRA and/or TS Prisma

What you will do

• Perform materials characterization (SEM, EBSD, TEM, APT) incl. respective sample preparation
• Perform beamline experiments when beamtime is granted
• Expanded a previously developed phenomenological model for white layer formation to Hybrid 60 steel
• Supervise master’s and/or PhD students to a certain extent
• Possibility to engage in teaching at undergraduate/master’s level

The position is meritorious for future roles in academia, industry, or the public sector.

Contract terms

The position is a temporary full-time employment for two years with the possibility of a one-year extension.

The position requires physical presence throughout the entire employment. A valid residence permit must be presented by the start date, otherwise the offer may be withdrawn.

What we offer

• As a postdoc at Chalmers, you are an employee and enjoy all employee benefits. Read more about working at Chalmers and our benefits for employees.

• A dynamic and inspiring working environment in the coastal city of Gothenburg.

• Read more about Sweden’s generous parental leave, subsidized day care, free schools, healthcare etc at Move To Gothenburg.

Chalmers is dedicated to improving gender balance and actively works with equality projects, such as the GENIE Initiative for gender equality and excellence. We celebrate diversity and consider equality and inclusion as fundamental aspects of all our activities.

If Swedish is not your native language, Chalmers offers Swedish courses to help you settle in.

Application procedure

The application should be written in English be attached as PDF-files, as below. Maximum size for each file is 40 MB. Please note that the system does not support Zip files.

CV

• A comprehensive CV, including a complete list of publications.
• Details of previous teaching and pedagogical experience.

Personal letter

• A brief introduction about yourself.
• A summary of your previous research fields and key research outcomes.
• An outline of your future goals and research focus.

Use the button at the foot of the page to reach the application form.

Please note: The applicant is responsible for ensuring that the application is complete. Incomplete applications and applications sent by email will not be considered. Contact details to references will be requested after the interview.

We welcome your application no later than March 1st, 2026

For questions please contact:

Uta Klement
Professor
uta.klement@chalmers.se

We look forward to your application!

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

Chalmers University of Technology in Gothenburg conducts research and education in technology and natural sciences at a high international level. The university has 3100 employees and 10,000 students, and offers education in engineering, science, shipping and architecture. With scientific excellence as a basis, Chalmers promotes knowledge and technical solutions for a sustainable world. Through global commitment and entrepreneurship, we foster an innovative spirit, in close collaboration with wider society.
Chalmers was founded in 1829 and has the same motto today as it did then: Avancez – forward.