Research Staff in the field Iron-based Shape Memory Alloys

 

Nestled in a modern city surrounded by nature and with an exceptional standard of living, Leibniz University Hannover offers excellent working conditions in a vibrant scientific community.

The Institute for Steel Construction engages in fundamental and applied research within the framework of doctoral programs, as well as in teaching and academic education in bachelor's and master's programs in civil engineering. The main goal of our research is to improve sustainability in construction towards Net Zero 2050. To achieve this goal, the institute focuses on various research topics such as supporting structures for wind turbines, advanced construction materials, and automated/robotic/additive manufacturing (as one of the key pillars of Industry 4.0 and the next construction revolution).

The Institute for Steel Construction welcomes applications for the following position starting January 1, 2025: Research Staff in the field Iron-based Shape Memory Alloys (salary scale 13 TV-L, 100 %)

The position is initially limited to 24 months, with the possibility of extension. Pursuing a doctoral degree is desired within the context of the advertised position

Your role

Your main task is the independent scientific handling of advanced research projects. The project you will be working on investigates the fracture failure of novel bonded joints made from steel and iron-based shape memory alloys (Fe-SMAs). Your responsibilities include researching suitable surface treatment techniques and conducting experimental investigations of the quasi-static fracture mechanisms to determine the fracture toughness of the joints. Additionally, you will develop a numerical model to validate the experimental results. In summary, by working on this project, you will make a significant contribution to the safe future application of such innovative SMA repair solutions.

Collaborations with national and international research partners, as well as the documentation of research results and their presentation at conferences, and in international journals, are expected.

Additionally, your responsibilities include actively participating in teaching activities and supervising students in their bachelor's and master's theses.

Who are we looking for?

In addition to the requirements for a general understanding of civil engineering, you should have a strong interest in independently and quickly familiarizing yourself with the topics of iron-based shape memory alloys and metallographic expertise (including the analysis and interpretation of phases, microstructures, and metallurgical properties). Additionally, it is advantageous if you already have solid skills in developing and validating numerical models in Ansys or Abaqus and have experience in methodical research as well as the systematic handling of experimental data.

The successful candidate must hold a university science degree preferably in civil engineering with a focus on steel construction, mechanical engineering, or a comparable field.

In addition, we are looking for a candidate with the following:

• Above-average academic performance in the mentioned fields are expected
• Interest in experimental research in the institute's laboratory
• Enthusiasm for interdisciplinary research
• Advanced knowledge and experience in numerical simulation, programming (e.g., MATLAB, ANSYS, ABAQUS, CAD software)
• Excellent communication skills (spoken and written) in German and English (C1 level)
• Teamwork skills, creativity, and independence

Equal opportunities and diversity are core values at Leibniz University Hannover. Our goal is to tap into individual potential and open up possibilities. We therefore welcome applications from anyone interested in the position, irrespective of gender, nationality, ethnic origin, religion or ideology, disability, age, sexual orientation and identity.

We strive towards a balanced and diverse workforce and a reduction in under-representation in accordance with the Lower Saxony Equal Rights Act (Niedersächsisches Gleichberechtigungsgesetz – NGG). We therefore particularly encourage applications for the above-mentioned position from women. Preference will be given to equally-qualified candidates with disabilities.

Why join us?

With more than 5000 employees, Leibniz University Hannover is one of the largest and most attractive employers in the Hannover region. We offer a vibrant interdisciplinary and international working environment, and promote personal and professional development ranging from subject-related skills to leadership and languages.

As a family-friendly university, working hours can be organised according to various flexible models. Part-time employment as well as remote work (mobile work, work from home) can therefore be arranged upon request. We support employees with balancing work and family life, through services such as back-up childcare, childcare during school holidays, and parent-child offices, as well as providing individual advice regarding family responsibilities and caring for dependants.

To promote health and well-being among employees, we offer an extensive sports programme with over 100 different sports, as well as a fitness centre with a sauna and climbing space. Health management measures, such as courses on stress management, good nutrition and relaxation, aim to ensure a healthy workplace.

 

Additional information

For further information, please contact Ms. Dipl.-Ing. Kathrin Löw (email: loew@stahl.uni-hannover.de).

Please submit your application by November 19, 2024, including the usual documents such as a resume and a one-page cover letter for this position, in electronic form (as a PDF file) with the subject "Stahlbau" to