PhD Position in Cryo-Atom Probe Tomography for Corrosion Studies

We are looking for a motivated PhD student to work on Cryo-Atom Probe Tomography for in-situ analysis of corrosion at the metal-electrolyte interface.

We are offering a fully-funded position for a motivated and talented PhD candidate to join the Durability of Engineering Materials research group at ETH Zurich. This research project will be conducted in close collaboration with the Scientific Center for Optical and Electron Microscopy (ScopeM) at ETH Zurich and with the Max Planck Institute for Sustainable Materials (MPI-SusMat) in Germany. Both collaborators are equipped with state-of-the-art microscopy and sample preparation equipment. The PhD student will be hosted in the Durability of Engineering Materials research group at ETH Zurich (Prof. U. Angst), whose research focuses on metal corrosion, reactive transport in porous media, electrochemistry, and materials science.

The position is expected to start in early 2025 and is fully funded for 4 years.

In this particular project, the student will develop an experimental methodology to study early-stage nanoscale corrosion processes at the metal-liquid interface, leveraging advanced microscopy techniques, namely cryo-transfer focused ion beam (FIB) and atom probe tomography (APT) in combination with additional nano-characterization techniques. The focus will lie on iron and steel corrosion in neutral and alkaline environments, that are relevant for infrastructure corrosion in the energy and transportation sector, radioactive waste disposal, or archaeology. The candidate will thus have the opportunity to engage in pioneering research at the intersection of microscopy and corrosion science, contributing to academic advancements and fundamental insights with broad industry relevance.

Profile of successful applicants

• Master’s degree in materials science, physics, chemistry or mechanical engineering
• Prior experience in scanning electron microscopy, FIB or APT are beneficial (not needed)
• Previous experience and knowledge in corrosion is not needed, but candidates are expected to show a strong interest in this field
• Excellent oral and written communication skills in English
• Maturity and great motivation to learn and work independently
• Above all, candidates should be curious and enthusiastic in what they do

• Opportunity to advance your scientific career at a leading academic institution
• Access to and training in cutting-edge methodologies and instrumentation
• Open and collaborative research environment
• Excellent working conditions and high quality of life in one of the world's most livable cities