Candidates should have a strong background in statistical physics and/or physical chemistry with some experience in topics related to fluid adsorption and transport properties, and/or multiscale modelling approaches. They should possess basic programming skills (mandatory), preferably in python or C++. Experience in atomistic simulation methods, in particular familiarity with molecular dynamics simulation tools (e.g. LAMMPS), and/or in using high-performance computing centers (HPC) is welcome. Background in using machine learning tools would be a plus.

Excellent knowledge of written and spoken English (working language) is required.

The selected candidate will receive a salary in accordance with the MSCA regulations for DCs. The gross salary includes a living allowance (€3400 per month subject to MSCA Country Correction Coefficient, namely 98,3% for Germany and 100% for Belgium), a mobility allowance (€600 per month) and a family allowance (€660 per month), if the researcher has family (‘Family’ means persons linked to the researcher by (i) marriage or (ii) a relationship with equivalent status to a marriage recognized by the legislation of the country where this relationship was formalized or (iii) dependent children who are actually being maintained by the researcher). The guaranteed (EC) funding is for 36 months.

Applicants can be of any nationality and must hold a Master of Science degree (or equivalent) in Physics, Chemistry or a related STEM subject. They need to fully respect the following eligibility criteria: 

(a) Must be doctoral candidates, i.e., not already in possession of a doctoral degree at the date of the recruitment.

(b) Must undertake transnational mobility. Researchers must not have resided or carried out their main activity (work, studies, etc.) in Germany for more than 12 months within the 36 months immediately before their date of recruitment. Compulsory national service, short stays such as holidays, and time spent as part of a procedure for obtaining refugee status under the Geneva Convention are not taken into account.

The candidates should send a CV, cover letter, BSc and MSc degrees (certified copies plus translation in English) and two letters of recommendation. Copies of publications could be sent later on, upon request. Personal interviews might be asked.

All applications must be submitted onlineDOCTORAL CANDIDATE WITHIN EU-RESEARCH-TRAINING NETWORK ON »FUEL CELL MODELLING« (IWM-2023-30) (fraunhofer.de) and mailed to konstantinos.gkagkas@toyota-europe.com with subject “BLESSED-DC2-Application”.

The outcome of the evaluation process will be announced by mid of June 2023. The contract is expected to start on 1^st of September 2023.

During the first 18 months, DC2 will be working at the Fraunhofer institute for mechanics of materials IWM in Freiburg, Germany in the group Tribosimulation and Multiscale Modelling. The group has a longstanding experience in the microscopic modelling and understanding of fundamental aspects of complex systems relevant for industrial applications.  

During the second 18 months DC2 will be working at the R&D AT Division of TME in Zaventem, Belgium. The research group consists of about 10 experienced researchers, focusing on the development of Artificial Intelligence methods (Machine Learning, Deep Learning) and their application to mobility challenges (i.e., Automated Driving, Carbon Neutral). In addition, DC1 will closely interact with members of the Material Engineering division who are responsible for the development of new functional materials for hydrogen Fuel Cells using numerical and experimental methods. The cross-divisional nature of the project will also involve the Powertrain division which is responsible for the control and integration of FC devices in vehicles and stationary applications.