Postdoc in Multiphysics Modelling of Laser-Material Interactions under Vacuum - DTU Construct

Are you passionate about computational fluid dynamics (CFD), heat transfer and understanding how materials behave under intense laser irradiation in extreme environments? At DTU, you will investigate the fundamental physics of laser-induced melting, evaporation and vapor transport in metallic and non-metallic materials under vacuum conditions. The position focuses on developing advanced numerical models of coupled thermal-fluid phenomena, with applications to laser-based manufacturing and processing of lunar materials.

The position is part of the DFF Sapere Aude project MOONPRINT – Establishing the theoretical framework for large-area printing of moon dust in vacuum using light sources.

MOONPRINT investigates the fundamental physical mechanisms governing laser-material interactions under vacuum, with particular emphasis on lunar regolith processing. Compared with conventional terrestrial laser processing, reduced ambient pressure can significantly influence evaporation kinetics, vapor expansion, melt-pool dynamics and particle transport. Understanding these phenomena across different material systems is essential for developing predictive numerical models and advancing laser-based manufacturing in extreme environments.

The project combines advanced multiphysics simulations with dedicated laser-processing experiments under high vacuum. A central research objective is to develop and validate computational approaches for coupled heat transfer, melting, solidification, evaporation and vapor transport. Particular attention will be given to the transition between continuum and rarefied flow regimes, and to the interactions between vapor expansion, molten material and surrounding particles.

Responsibilities and qualifications
Your primary responsibility will be to develop advanced computational models for investigating laser-material interactions under vacuum and reduced-pressure conditions. The research will focus on coupled heat and mass transfer, laser-induced melting and solidification, evaporation, vapor generation and expansion, and the resulting thermal-fluid dynamics in metallic and non-metallic materials.

A central part of the work will involve developing and applying numerical approaches to investigate the physical mechanisms governing energy and material transport during laser processing. Particular emphasis will be placed on evaporation kinetics, vapor-flow dynamics, phase-change phenomena, and the influence of ambient pressure on melt-pool behavior and process stability.

The research will primarily build on computational fluid dynamics (CFD), multiphysics modelling and numerical heat transfer, with opportunities to incorporate kinetic-theory-based methods and particle transport models where relevant. The developed computational framework will contribute to MOONPRINT's broader objective of understanding laser-based processing of lunar materials under high-vacuum conditions.

You will validate the developed models against dedicated laser-processing experiments conducted within MOONPRINT and apply the validated approaches to investigate the effects of laser-processing parameters, material properties and ambient pressure on process behavior. The ultimate goal is to establish a predictive understanding of laser-material interactions under extreme environmental conditions and support the development of reliable laser-based manufacturing strategies.

You will collaborate closely with researchers working on laser-processing experiments, process monitoring and materials characterization, connecting numerical simulations with experimental observations and the broader scientific objectives of MOONPRINT. You will also contribute to supervision and teaching activities, publish in leading international journals, and present your research at international conferences.

We envision that you:

• Hold a PhD in mechanical engineering, computational engineering, applied physics, materials science, manufacturing engineering, or a related field.
• Have a strong background in computational fluid dynamics (CFD), numerical heat transfer, or multiphysics modelling, preferably with applications involving laser-material interactions, phase-change processes, or advanced manufacturing.
• Have experience in modelling thermal-fluid phenomena, including heat and mass transfer, melting and solidification, evaporation, or multiphase flow.
• Are proficient in numerical modelling and scientific programming, with experience using tools such as ANSYS Fluent, OpenFOAM, COMSOL Multiphysics, Python, C/C++, MATLAB, or comparable platforms.
• Possess a solid understanding of fluid mechanics, thermodynamics and heat transfer, and demonstrate the ability to independently develop and investigate challenging computational research problems.

It is considered an advantage if you have:

• Experience in modelling evaporation, vapor transport, or gas dynamics under vacuum or reduced-pressure conditions.
• Knowledge of rarefied gas dynamics, kinetic theory, direct simulation Monte Carlo (DSMC), or numerical approaches bridging continuum and non-continuum flow regimes.
• Experience with laser processing of metallic or non-metallic materials, including laser welding, laser melting, additive manufacturing, or related technologies.
• Experience with particle transport modelling, discrete element methods (DEM), Lagrangian particle tracking, or coupled CFD-particle simulations.
• Experience with high-performance computing, numerical model development, optimization, uncertainty quantification, or experimental validation.

As a formal qualification, you must hold a PhD degree (or equivalent). 

We offer
DTU is a leading technical university globally recognized for the excellence of its research, education, innovation and scientific advice. We offer a rewarding and challenging job in an international environment. We strive for academic excellence in an environment characterized by collegial respect and academic freedom tempered by responsibility.

At DTU Construct, Section for Manufacturing Engineering, we have particular focus on a collaborative and inclusive research environment where innovation, knowledge sharing, and scientific excellence go hand in hand. We are committed to supporting the development of talented early-career researchers through close mentoring and strong professional networks. At the same time, we place great emphasis on well-being, flexibility, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance, creating an environment where both people and research can thrive.

Salary and terms of employment
The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. In addition, supplements can be negotiated in accordance with DTU’s salary structure for scientific staff: www.inside.dtu.dk/en/human-resources/during-employment/salary/salary-structures. 

The period of employment is 2 years. The position is a full-time position.

The expected starting date is 1 February 2027 (or according to mutual agreement).

You can read more about career paths at DTU here.

Further information 
Further information may be obtained from Associate Professor Mohamad Bayat (mbayat@dtu.dk) 

You can read more about Department of Civil and Mechanical Engineering at www.https://construct.dtu.dk/

If you are applying from abroad, you may find useful information on working in Denmark and at DTU at DTU – Moving to Denmark.

Application procedure  
Your complete online application must be submitted no later than 1 December 2026 (23:59 Danish time). 

Applications must be submitted as one PDF file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please open the link "Apply now", fill out the online application form, and attach all your materials in English in one PDF file. The file must include:

• Application (cover letter)
• CV
• Academic Diplomas (MSc/PhD – in English)
• List of publications 
• Transcripts from MSc. and Ph.D.

Applications received after the deadline will not be considered.

All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, disability, race, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply. As DTU works with research in critical technology, which is subject to special rules for security and export control, open-source background checks may be conducted on qualified candidates for the position.

DTU Civil and Mechanical Engineering develops and utilizes science and technical knowledge for the benefit of society and sustainable development. We undertake research, education, innovation, and scientific advice of the highest quality within building design and processes, building construction and safety, building energy and services, solid mechanics, fluid mechanics, materials technology, manufacturing engineering, engineering design and thermal energy systems.

DTU – For the benefit of society since 1829
DTU is one of Europe's leading elite technical universities. Through research and education at an international top level, we create solutions to the major societal challenges of our time and help secure Europe's global leadership in sustainable technological development. Since Hans Christian Ørsted founded DTU almost 200 years ago, our mission has remained the same: We develop and create value through the natural and technical sciences for the benefit of society. DTU has 13,800 students, 1,600 PhD students, and 6,500 employees. We work in an international environment and have an inclusive, stimulating, and informal work culture. DTU has campuses in all parts of Denmark and in Greenland and collaborates with the best universities around the world.