A 3-year postdoc position is open in the Advanced Production Engineering (APE) research group at the Engineering and Technology Institute Groningen (ENTEG), Faculty of Science and Engineering. The appointment will focus on the development of sustainable ZnAlMg-X alloy coatings for green steel applications.

ZnAlMg alloys coated steel belong to the most important materials for automotive components, building components, domestic appliances and electrical goods. Besides the improved corrosion resistance, however, these coating alloys generally suffer from a reduced formability and cracking resistance as compared to GI galvanized steel. Furthermore, it is unclear at this moment how these types of coatings will perform in application to the green steel. This project is aimed investigating the impact of using green steel as a substrate and at the same time improving the performance of this type of coatings on corrosion and cracking resistance, applicability and removability for recycling.

Faculty of Science and Engineering

Solliciteer uiterlijk: 31 August 2026 23:59 Dutch local time

1 fte

€4.251 - €4.925

Postdoc Sustainable ZnAlMg-X alloy coating for green steel applications

https://werkenbij.rug.nl/vacature/postdoc-sustainable-znalmg-x-alloy-coating-for-green-steel-applications-1855/

What are you going to do?

As a postdoctoral researcher you will:

Design and develop ZnAlMg-X alloy coatings for green steel.
Study the interface adhesion and formability of ZnAlMg-X alloy coatings hot-dipped on green steel.
Investigate the corrosion resistance of ZnAlMg-X alloy coatings.
Explore its removability for recycling.

Faculty of Science and Engineering

Solliciteer uiterlijk: 31 August 2026 23:59 Dutch local time

€4.251 - €4.925

Who are you?

We are seeking a curious, focused, and collaborative researcher who thrives on challenges. You will be a strong candidate if you have:

A PhD degree in Materials Science and Engineering or a closely related discipline. A strong background in metallurgy, galvanization, and corrosion science will be a clear advantage.
An excellent academic record and strong expertise in materials characterization and coating technology.
An independent and creative mindset combined with the ability to work collaboratively.
Excellent English communication skills both written and oral.

What can you expect from us?

In accordance with the collective labor agreement for Dutch universities, we offer a salary of at least € 4.251 (schaal 10.4) up to a maximum of € 4.925 (schaal 10.7) gross per month for a full-time employment contract.
232 vacation hours per year, based on a 38-hour workweek (1.0 FTE). You can also work more or fewer hours in exchange for more or fewer free hours. For example, with a 40-hour workweek, you save 96 extra free hours, and with a 36-hour workweek, you lose 96 hours.
End-of-year bonus of 8.3% and 8% holiday allowance.
Extensive opportunities for personal and professional development.
The position is offered for one year in the first instance plus extension of two years.

Where will you be working?

At the University of Groningen (UG), researchers from all fields of academia and technology are working on academic challenges and societal questions. Lecturers prepare their students for meaningful careers within or outside the academic world. Interdisciplinary research and teaching, sharing of knowledge, collaboration with businesses, government institutions, and societal organizations are aspects that are of the utmost importance to this European top university. The UG aims to be an open academic community with an inclusive and safe working climate that invites you to add your value.

The Faculty of Science and Engineering (FSE) provides teaching and research across a wide range of disciplines, from physics and biology to artificial intelligence, mechanical engineering, and pharmacy. In close collaboration with partners from industry, healthcare, and society, we contribute to the urgent challenges of our time, such as energy, sustainability, digitization, and medical technology. Our community is open and informal, with more than 7,000 students, 1,000 PhD students, and 1,400 staff members from all over the world. If you would like to learn more about the Faculty of Science and Engineering, visit rug.nl/fse.

You will be joining the vibrant and innovative Department of Advanced Production Engineering at the University of Groningen, the Netherlands, where research and collaboration go hand in hand. Our team is composed of talented researchers and experts who are dedicated to advancing the field of sustainable materials. As part of a close-knit team focusing on cutting-edge technologies, you will work alongside specialists from diverse backgrounds to develop groundbreaking solutions. You will collaborate with industry partners, other academic institutions, and internal departments. The department fosters a culture of creativity and mutual support, ensuring a stimulating environment conducive to groundbreaking research. Your contributions will play a crucial role in the advancement of sustainable ZnAlMg-X alloy coatings for green steel applications, driving both academic and industrial progress.

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Application procedure

Step 1: Your application

After submitting your application, you will receive a confirmation by email.

Step 2: Selection

The selection committee assesses your application and you will be notified as soon as possible whether you are invited for an interview.

Step 3: First interview

We would like to get to know each other better in a first interview, which can take place either online or on location.

Step 4: Second interview and possible assessment or guest lecture

We may schedule a second interview with you. Depending on the position, this interview can be complemented with an assessment or guest lecture.

Step 5: Terms of employment meeting

After a positive interview, we will discuss the terms of employment together. When everything is completed, we are happy to welcome you at the University of Groningen!

Interested?

Does this vacancy appeal to you? If so, click on the button below and apply straightaway.

Please add the following documents to your application:

Motivation letter.
Curriculum vitae with contact details for three academic references (recommendation letters highly encouraged).
List of publications.
Research proposal of 4-5 pages.
Copy of PhD degree (or letter of promotor indicating when the dissertation will be finished).
Copies of diplomas and associated grades.

Do you have any questions or need more information?

Questions about the content of the job?

Yutao Pei

Full Professor
Y.Pei@rug.nl
Questions about your application process?

David Wind

Managing Coordinator
d.wind@rug.nl

Information about applying

When scheduling meetings, we will take your schedule into account as much as possible.

The University of Groningen considers social safety important. We strive to be a university where staff and students feel respected and at home, regardless of differences in background, experiences, perspectives, and identity. For more information, see also our page about our diversity policy.

Acquisition is not appreciated.

Our selection procedure follows the guidelines of the NVP Application Code.

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