The posting
Job Description
We are seeking an experimental physicist for a two-year postdoctoral position in dark-field X-ray microscopy (DFXM) of plastic deformation in metals.
You will investigate how dislocation cells and boundaries form and evolve in bulk aluminium, with the aim of understanding the mechanisms of dislocation patterning and their relationship to the mechanical behavior of metals.
About Us:
You will join an international and highly multidisciplinary team of approximately 8 PhDs and postdocs, fostering a strong collaboration between DTU Construct and DTU Physics. Our group is a leader in the field of metal plasticity. We invented the synchrotron-based imaging techniques 3-Dimensional X-Ray Microscopy and Dark-Field X-ray Microscopy. Together we utilize them to visualize the evolution of internal structures in metals during plastic deformation. We also conduct simulations and modelling. Our overarching goal is to understand and predict the mechanical behavior of metals during plastic deformation.
The work will combine in situ synchrotron experiments with the development of methods for quantitative three-dimensional microstructure analysis. You will study how dislocation structures form and evolve, and how their spatial organisation relates to the mechanical behavior of metals. Experimental observations will be compared with theoretical and computational models to better understand the underlying physical mechanisms and contribute to a more fundamental understanding of plasticity.
Responsibilities:
- Plan and conduct in situ DFXM experiments during mechanical loading, including preparation of synchrotron beamtime proposals.
- Develop and apply Python methods for processing large datasets and quantitative characterisation of three-dimensional microstructures.
- Quantify cell refinement, boundary formation and spatial correlations, and interpret the observations in relation to theoretical and computational models of plasticity.
- Publish the results in collaboration with colleagues working on experiments and modelling of metal plasticity.
Qualifications:
- Strong understanding of dark-field X-ray microscopy (DFXM) and experience with related diffraction-based characterisation methods, such as 3DXRD or DCT.
- Experience planning and conducting synchrotron experiments, as well as writing beamtime proposals.
- Knowledge of dislocation structures and their evolution and patterning in metals.
- Proficiency in Python for scientific computing on large datasets.
- Experience developing methods for quantitative characterisation of three-dimensional microstructures.
- Strong scientific writing skills, demonstrated by publications.
As a formal qualification, you must hold a PhD degree (or equivalent).
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 terms of employment
The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. In addition, supplements can be negotiated in accordance with DTU’s salary structure for scientific staff: www.inside.dtu.dk/en/human-resources/during-employment/salary/salary-structures.
The period of employment is 2 years. The desired starting date is 1 February 2027, or as agreed.
You can read more about career paths at DTU here.
Assessment
The assessment of applicants will be made by Prof. Henning Friis Poulsen, DTU Physics, and Prof. Grethe Winther, DTU Construct.
Further information
Further information may be obtained from Prof. Henning Friis Poulsen ([email protected]), DTU Physics, and Prof. Grethe Winther ([email protected]), DTU Construct.
You can read more about DTU Physics at physics.dtu.dk.
If you are applying from abroad, you may find useful information on working in Denmark and at DTU at DTU – Moving to Denmark.
Application procedure
Your complete online application must be submitted no later than 5 November 2026 (23:59 Danish time). Applications must be submitted as one PDF file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please open the link "Apply now", fill out the online application form, and attach all your materials in English in one PDF file. The file must include:
- Application (cover letter)
- CV
- Academic Diplomas (MSc/PhD – in English)
- List of publications
Applications received after the deadline will not be considered.
All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, disability, race, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply. As DTU works with research in critical technology, which is subject to special rules for security and export control, open-source background checks may be conducted on qualified candidates for the position.
DTU – For the benefit of society since 1829 DTU is one of Europe's leading elite technical universities. Through research and education at an international top level, we create solutions to the major societal challenges of our time and help secure Europe's global leadership in sustainable technological development. Since Hans Christian Ørsted founded DTU almost 200 years ago, our mission has remained the same: We develop and create value through the natural and technical sciences for the benefit of society. DTU has 13,800 students, 1,600 PhD students, and 6,500 employees. We work in an international environment and have an inclusive, stimulating, and informal work culture. DTU has campuses in all parts of Denmark and in Greenland and collaborates with the best universities around the world.
