Postdoctoral Researcher (f/m/d) Mechanical engineering or materials science

Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) – The University in the Helmholtz Association

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Postdoctoral Researcher (f/m/d) Mechanical engineering or materials science Institute for Pulsed Power and Microwave Technology (IHM) limited as soon as possible fulltime 63,600.00 to 70,500.00 EUR gross per year

Your Tasks

We are seeking applicants (f/m/d) for work in the field of investigating the influence of fast, turbulent lead flows on the corrosion behavior of materials. Various materials will be tested in the CORELLA 2 facility, developed and available at KIT-IHM. The research objective is to evaluate the influence of key parameters such as flow velocity, angle of attack, and exposure time on the observed erosion phenomena. This work is part of an industrial project. Our industrial partner is developing advanced nuclear lead-cooled reactors.

Your specific responsibilities

• Development of suitable materials, particularly for fast-flowing conditions. The work will be carried out primarily at KIT with the support of IHM experts.
• Travel to the industrial partner in France and Italy for progress reports and, if necessary, for specific follow-up investigations of the exposed materials
• Preparation, conduction and evaluation of experiments using SEM, EDX, EBSD, surface profilometry and other methods
• Investigation of the evolution of shear stress as a function of liquid metal velocity and impact angle using RANS simulations to support the modeling of the erosion process

Your Profile

• You hold a master's degree in materials science, materials engineering, mechanical engineering, physics, or a comparable field, along with a completed doctoral degree.
• You are creative, motivated and able to work both independently and as part of a team.
• Initial experience in the field of corrosion analysis and electron microscopy is a advantageous, as is knowledge of Python and FEM software such as COMSOL and ABAQUS.
• Excellent written and spoken English skills are required; good knowledge of German and French is beneficial.
• You should have a strong interest in experimental and theoretical problems in the fields of materials science, corrosion, design and flow simulation.

We Offer Science for Impact

Engage with topics of societal relevance-in an excellent scientific environment that enables change.

Family-friendliness

The “KIT Family+- program assists you in reconciling work and family life by offering childcare services, holiday activities, a parent child office space, and assistance with caring for relatives.

Flexible Working Hours

Take advantage of flexible hours schemes, remote work options, part time models, and a 30 day annual leave entitlement to achieve an optimal work life balance.

Stay Healthy

Under the motto “Fit at KIT – Body, Mind and Soul,- we promote your well being through fitness classes, mental health programmes, and regular preventive health examinations.

Individualised Extra Benefits

Enjoy a corporate pension (VBL), a €25 monthly contribution toward a JobTicketBW, plus a broad selection of cultural and recreational programmes.

Career-Building and Developmental Opportunities

We provide you with a structured onboarding program, a broad spectrum of continuing education options, and personalised support, thereby fostering your individual growth.

Salary

Salary category 13 TV-L; classification is based on personal and professional qualifications.

Job location

Eggenstein-Leopoldshafen (and Karlsruhe)

Contract duration

18 months

At KIT we value the diversity of our employees; different perspectives and backgrounds enrich our work. We therefore welcome applications from all candidates. Women are especially encouraged to apply. Applications from recognized severely disabled individuals are given preferential consideration when qualifications are equal.

Application up to: 2026-09-13

Job posting number: 360/2026

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