Research Support for In-situ X-ray Characterization of Additive Manufacturing

About the role

The successful candidate will join IMDEA Materials Institute’s international research team to advance the understanding of laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) processing of Zn‑ and Ti‑based alloys. The role combines alloy development, high‑speed synchrotron X‑ray imaging, and multiscale microstructural characterization, with the aim of establishing a pathway toward a PhD thesis in advanced additive manufacturing.

Key responsibilities

• Conduct high‑speed synchrotron X‑ray imaging experiments at ESRF beamlines (e.g., ID19, BM05).
• Operate and optimise LPBF process replicators for Zn and Ti alloy powders.
• Manufacture metallic samples and architectured materials using LPBF technologies.
• Design and execute operando experiments to investigate melt‑pool evolution, vapor plume dynamics, keyhole instabilities and defect formation.
• Quantify melt‑pool geometry, flow instabilities and defect statistics from large time‑resolved datasets.
• Develop image‑analysis workflows and implement advanced data‑analytics, including optional AI/machine‑learning approaches.
• Perform ex‑situ correlative characterisation of built samples.

Required profile

• Background in materials science, mechanical engineering, or a related field.
• Experience with additive manufacturing processes, preferably LPBF.
• Familiarity with synchrotron or high‑speed imaging techniques.
• Strong analytical mindset and ability to work in a multidisciplinary, international environment.

Required skills

• High‑speed synchrotron X‑ray imaging.
• Laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) operation.
• Data analytics and statistical analysis of large datasets.
• Image processing and workflow development.
• Machine‑learning or AI techniques (optional).

What we offer

• Access to state‑of‑the‑art facilities at IMDEA Materials and ESRF.
• Collaboration with leading European research groups.
• International, multidisciplinary research environment.
• Potential pathway toward a PhD thesis.