IMDEA Materials Institute is a public research organization founded in 2007 by Madrid’s regional government to carry out research of excellence in Material Science and Engineering by attracting talent from all over the world to work in an international and multidisciplinary environment. IMDEA Materials has grown rapidly since its foundation and currently includes more than 120 researchers from 22 nationalities and has become one of the leading research centers in materials in Europe which has received the María de Maeztu seal of excellence from the Spanish government. The research activities have been focused on the areas of materials for transport, energy, and health care and the Institute has state-of-the-art facilities for processing, characterization and simulation of advanced materials.
Description
This ambitious project aims to advance the understanding and optimization of LPBF processing of Zn- and Ti-based alloys by combining alloy development, advanced manufacturing, operando synchrotron imaging, and multiscale microstructural characterization.
A central aspect of the project is the use of high-speed synchrotron X-ray imaging to directly observe dynamic phenomena occurring during the LPBF process, including melt pool evolution, vapor plume dynamics, keyhole instabilities, and defect formation mechanisms. These experiments will be performed in close collaboration with the European Synchrotron Radiation Facility (ESRF) through the AM Beam Allocation Group coordinated by IMDEA Materials.
The project further integrates advanced data analytics, image processing, and correlative characterization methodologies to accelerate materials development and process optimization for next-generation metallic alloys.
The successful candidate will join a highly international and multidisciplinary research environment and will contribute to a rapidly growing field with strong scientific and industrial impact. The position is intended as a pathway toward a future PhD thesis in advanced additive manufacturing and synchrotron-based characterization.
The selected candidate will carry out the following tasks:
- Conduct high-speed synchrotron X-ray imaging experiments at ESRF beamlines (ID19, BM05, or similar)
- Operate and optimize LPBF process replicators for Zn and Ti alloy powders
- Manufacture metallic samples and architectured materials using LPBF technologies
- Design and perform operando experiments for the investigation of process–microstructure relationships
- Quantify melt pool geometry, flow instabilities, vapor plume dynamics, and defect formation
- Process and statistically analyze large-scale time-resolved datasets
- Develop image analysis workflows for operando synchrotron data
- Implement advanced data analytics and, optionally, AI/machine-learning approaches for feature detection and correlation analysis
- Perform post-build characterization using:
- SEM / EBSD / EDS
- Micro-CT and XRD
- Nanoindentation and mechanical testing
- Correlate operando observations with final microstructure and defect populations
- Validate process–structure relationships through multiscale characterization approaches
Requirements
Mandatory Requirements
It is mandatory that the candidate meets the requirements indicated in the call:
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Age (16–29 years old), be under 30 years of age at the date of hiring
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Degree/qualification (according to the requested profile)
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Registered as an unemployed job seeker at the emplyment office within the National Employment System (SEPE) before hiring: https://sede.comunidad.madrid/...
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No employment relationship with IMDEA (during the 6 months prior to hiring).
The position is supported by Young Researchers Programme of the Community of Madrid within the framework of the ESF+ Programme: Strategic Technologies for Europe Platform (STEP) / Programa de Jóvenes Investigadores de la Comunidad de Madrid en el marco del Programa FSE+: Plataforma de Tecnologías Estratégicas para Europa (STEP)
Other requirements:
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The position is most appropriate for recent Master’s graduates (or candidates close to graduation) in Materials Science and Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, Metallurgy, Industrial Engineering, or related disciplines, with strong academic credentials and a demonstrated interest in additive manufacturing, metal processing, advanced characterization, and digitalization technologies.
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Candidates should have experience or interest in laboratory experimentation, data analysis, and materials characterization techniques. The ability to work both independently and within a multidisciplinary and international research environment is essential.
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A high academic performance during the B.Sc. and M.Sc. studies is required (average grade above 8.3/10 or equivalent).
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Full proficiency in English, both written and spoken, is mandatory.
Desirable
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Prior exposure to LPBF or other AM technologies.
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Experience with synchrotron or neutron techniques.
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Programming skills (Python, MATLAB, machine learning libraries).
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Familiarity with microstructural characterization tools (SEM, EBSD, X-ray CT).
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Strong written and oral communication skills, including scientific writing.
Conditions
- Full-time contract for 12 months.
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Availability to start in July 2026.
- Guaranteed participation in multiple ESRF beamtime campaigns.
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Access to state-of-the-art facilities at IMDEA Materials and ESRF.
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A dynamic, multicultural research environment in Madrid.
Applications are processed upon reception. The position might be closed once ten working days have passed since publication, so we encourage early application.
The working language of the Institute is English. Full command of the English language is required in all positions.
WHAT YOU WILL FIND AT IMDEA:
Stimulating environment where you can grow professionally.
IMDEA Materials Institute is committed to equal opportunities, diversity and the promotion of a healthy work environment and work-life balance. Female applicants are encouraged to apply to our research and technical positions.
Besides on-the-job technical training, IMDEA Materials Institute is committed to training the Institute’s scientists and staff in “soft” or transversal skills
