PhD candidate in Computational Materials Science 
(EU Marie Curie Fellowship)

We are seeking a postgraduate researcher with interests in computer modelling,
finite and discrete element methods, and powder technology to work on modelling
of die filling and compaction of powders and granules, a research project within
the IPROCOM consortium funded by the EU under the ITN Programme.

In the IPROCOM project the processing of particulate materials for
pharmaceutical applications will be studied. The project vision is to develop
computational process models that can be used to predict the properties of
intermediate (ribbons/granules) and final products (tablets/pellets/components)
based on the properties of individual particles with identified optimal process
conditions. This vision will be realized through close collaborations among the
partners with several interchanging secondments.

In detail, during the PhD numerical models have to be developed further which
allow a systematic investigation of how granule properties and process
parameters affect the die filling behavior and the subsequent powder compaction
and ejection steps. One aspect will be deriving methods to predict possible
damage evolution like crack formation during ejection. It is also expected that
the applicant will participate a wide range of networking activities including
secondments, IPROCOM training schools, workshops or short courses. Besides these
topics it is expected that the applicant will actively support the daily project
work in the group to some extent.

Applicants should have a masters degree (or equivalent) in material science or
related subjects like physics, chemistry or engineering with an emphasis on
numerical simulation.

Special expertise is expected especially in 
- continuum mechanics
- programming (i.e. C,C++, Fortran)
- numerical simulation, preferably in FEM and DEM
- good communication and organizational skills
- good English language skills

This position is offered in the context of a Marie Curie Initial Training
Network. Therefore, your eligibility for the post is determined by Marie Curie
terms and conditions. Especially, applicants must not have resided or carried
out their main activity (work, studies, etc) in Germany for more than 12 months
in the last 3 years.

The fellowship covers a stipend for the duration of 3 years. Salary is about €
36,000 gross/year + mobility-allowance of € 8,000 per year.


We are looking forward to receiving your application

Dr. Torsten Kraft
Group Leader Powder Technology
Fraunhofer Institute for Mechanics of Materials IWM
Woehlerstr. 11 | 79108 Freiburg | Germany
Phone +49 761 5142-248 | Fax +49 761 5142-510
torsten.kraft_at_iwm.fraunhofer.de | www.iwm.fraunhofer.de