JOB DESCRIPTION

Steel is one of the most critical engineering materials in modern society, significantly enhancing our quality of life through its versatile applications. However, its large-scale primary production is associated with substantial anthropogenic CO2 emissions, contributing approximately 30% of global industrial CO2 emissions and about 7% of total global emissions. As a result, the steel industry stands among the largest single contributors to global CO2 emissions and faces an urgent decarbonization challenge.
A significant portion, ~80-90% of CO2 emissions, in steel production arises during the reduction of iron ore (ironmaking) in blast furnaces using carbon-based reductants such as coke and coal. To achieve meaningful emissions reductions, fossil-free ironmaking processes are essential. Among emerging solutions, hydrogen-based direct reduction (HyDR) has gained prominence as a leading green ironmaking route, offering the potential to eliminate direct CO2 emissions during iron ore reduction.
This PhD project aims to investigate the reduction behavior of iron ore pellets under varying process conditions, with a particular focus on how these conditions and pellet properties influence the resulting direct reduced iron (DRI). Special attention will be given to understanding reduction kinetics and their correlation with the microstructural evolution of iron ore pellets. A multiscale characterization strategy will be employed to achieve these objectives. This fundamental research will contribute to optimizing the HyDR process and pellet design, thereby accelerating the decarbonization of the steel industry.
We are seeking an ambitious PhD researcher to join the exciting and collaborative research project part of the HELIOS Doctoral Network (https://helios-dn.eu). As a PhD candidate, you will work in a stimulating academic environment and collaborate with leading industrial partners. You will also have the opportunities to contribute to the academic community through discussions, the co-supervision of students, and guest lectures.

JOB REQUIREMENTS

We seek an outstanding, motivated, enthusiastic researcher with experience in microstructure development in metals and physical metallurgy. The successful candidate has the following qualifications:

• A M.Sc. degree in the field of materials science.
• A solid background in metal science and phase transformation.
• A critical, curious, and creative approach to the research.
• The capacity to communicate effectively with peers and students.
• An open personality and good communication skills in written and spoken English.

Please refer the Job description for details