The CoaST Research Centre at DTU Chemical Engineering seeks a qualified candidate for a PhD position on Intumescent Coatings, Formulation, and Image Analysis.
The Research Centre CoaST
The activities in CoaST cover coating technologies from raw materials, over formulation, test and characterization to production and application. In the broad perspective, the centre will support development, production and use of high performance coatings with improved sustainability profiles over the lifetime of the coating. Areas of research are anticorrosive coatings for steel structures, blade coatings for wind turbines, intumescent coatings for passive fire protection, antifouling coatings for ships, insulation coatings for heat loss reduction, coatings for the cement- and mineral industries, and coatings for oil- and gas pipelines at high temperature and high pressure.
Responsibilities and Qualifications
Background
In the event of a fire, intumescent coatings initiate a complex series of chemical reactions to form a thermally insulating char layer, which can protect load-bearing steel structures in buildings, infrastructures (e.g. airports), or offshore installations, thereby allowing people a longer escape time. The char formed is a porous, multi-cellular structure with a thermal conductivity that depends on the porosity and the pore size distribution.
Purpose of Ph.D. project
The purpose of this project is to develop characterization methods, which allow a mapping of the pore size distribution and defects (cracks) of intumescent coating chars, and subsequently design a formulation-testing strategy to develop coatings with optimal char structures.
Candidates should have a two-year master’s degree (120 ECTS points) in chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, or materials science and be able to handle and have an interest in development of algorithms for image analysis and experimental laboratory and formulation work. In addition, the grade average (Danish grading scale, see DTU homepage) of the master degree should be at least eight and preferably higher.
Approval and Enrolment
The scholarship for the PhD degree is subject to academic approval, and the candidate will be enrolled in one of the general degree programmes at DTU. For information about our enrolment requirements and the general planning of the PhD study programme, please see the DTU PhD Guide.
Assessment
The assessment of the applicants will be handled by Professor Søren Kiil and Post Doc Jochen Dreyer.
We offer
DTU is a leading technical university globally recognized for the excellence of its research, education, innovation and scientific advice. We offer a rewarding and challenging job in an international environment. We strive for academic excellence in an environment characterized by collegial respect and academic freedom tempered by responsibility.
Salary and appointment terms
The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. The allowance will be agreed upon with the relevant union. The period of employment is 3 years.
You can read more about career paths at DTU here.
Further information
For further information on the project contact: Professor Søren Kiil (sk@kt.dtu.dk).
You can read more about DTU Chemical Engineering at www.kt.dtu.dk/english.
If you are applying from abroad, you may find useful information on working in Denmark and at DTU at DTU – Moving to Denmark.
Applicationprocedure
Your complete online application must be submitted no later than 22 November 2021 (Danish time). Applications must be submitted as one PDF file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please open the link “Apply online”, fill out the online application form, and attach all your materials in English in one PDF file. The file must include:
- A letter motivating the application (cover letter)
- Curriculum vitae
- Grade transcripts and BSc/MSc diploma
- Excel sheet with translation of grades to the Danish grading system (see guidelines and Excel spreadsheet here)
You may apply prior to obtaining your master’s degree but cannot begin before having received it.
Applications received after the deadline will not be considered.
All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, race, disability, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply.
Technology for people
DTU develops technology for people. With our international elite research and study programmes, we are helping to create a better world and to solve the global challenges formulated in the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals. Hans Christian Ørsted founded DTU in 1829 with a clear vision to develop and create value using science and engineering to benefit society. That vision lives on today. DTU has 12,000 students and 6,000 employees. We work in an international atmosphere and have an inclusive, evolving, and informal working environment. Our main campus is in Kgs. Lyngby north of Copenhagen and we have campuses in Roskilde and Ballerup and in Sisimiut in Greenland.
Apply for this job
Apply no later than 22 November 2021
Apply for the job at DTU Chemical Eng. by completing the following form.