Postdoc Researcher (Sustainable Metallurgy)

TL;DR

Postdoc Researcher (Sustainable Metallurgy): Developing innovative carburization and melting strategies for hydrogen-based DRI in reduced electric furnaces to accelerate the transition to CO2-neutral steelmaking with an accent on reaction mechanisms and kinetics. Focus on designing lab-scale experiments to determine wetting behavior and investigating the influence of carbon on phase transitions in complex iron systems.

Location: Must be based in or relocate to Delft, Netherlands

Salary: €3,546 – €5,538

Company

hirify.global is a top international university combining science, engineering, and design to solve global challenges in energy, climate, mobility, and digital society.

What you will do

• Explore and select suitable carbonaceous materials for the REF process based on graphitization degree.
• Design and execute lab-scale experiments to determine wetting behavior between carbonaceous materials and iron systems.
• Investigate the carburization and melting mechanisms of H-DRI under REF operating conditions.
• Collaborate with researchers from the MSE department and Tata Steel Netherlands to exchange knowledge.
• Contribute to scientific publications, conference presentations, and the development of new research proposals.

Requirements

• PhD degree in chemical, metallurgical, or materials engineering, or a closely related field.
• Sound knowledge of pyrometallurgical fundamentals and experience with ironmaking and steelmaking technologies.
• Experience with advanced characterization and image analysis tools (SEM-EDS, TEM, and EPMA are a big plus).
• Proficiency in designing high-temperature experiments using furnaces and reacting gases (O2, H2, CO/CO2, natural gas).
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.
• Strong track record of scientific research with publications in international peer-reviewed journals.

Culture & Benefits

• Temporary 3-year contract with a flexible working week (38-40 hours).
• Salary and benefits aligned with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities.
• Excellent pension scheme via ABP and an annual individual employment package.
• Annual leave of 232 hours with the option to buy or sell additional hours.
• Comprehensive relocation support via the Coming to Delft Service, including partner job search support.
• Ample opportunities for education, training, and partially paid parental leave.

Hiring process

• Application deadline: June 7, 2026.
• First interview round: Week of June 22, 2026.
• Second interview round: Week of June 29, 2026.