Position Summary
Position:
Department:
Institute:
Denmark Technical University
Country:
Denmark
Research Field:
Physics, engineering, material science, Python, neutron scattering
Posted Date:
Mar 11, 2026
Deadline:
May 01, 2026
Offer Period:
2.5 Years
Offer Start Date:
Sep 01, 2026
Postdoc in digital twins for neutron scattering methods
Project Description:
- This postdoc position is a part of the ACCESS project, Augmenting the STEM classroom by ESS digital twins. The ACCESS project is funded by the Novo Nordisk Foundation, and it is a collaboration between DTU – Technical University of Denmark, University of Copenhagen (UCPH) and the European Spallation Source (ESS). ESS in Lund, Sweden is a future large-scale research facility for neutron-based investigation of materials in a broad sense.
- The aim of this postdoc position is to design, implement, and validate McStas digital twins of selected ESS instruments to a level of detail that mimics the authentic experience of the full experimental pipeline with a set of representative and relevant virtual samples to facilitate realistic training in state-of-the-art data analysis.
- The overall strategic objective of the ACCESS project is to develop even better education to train the scientists and engineers of the future. In addition to this postdoc position, the ACCESS project includes two other postdocs and one PhD position.
Your responsibility will be to:
- Design, implement, and test the full experimental pipeline for a set of authentic samples, including the associated data analysis.
- Validate the data produced by the digital twins by linking virtual experiments with real data that you acquire.
- Work with two neutron scattering methods chosen among imaging, small‑angle scattering, diffraction, and inelastic scattering, related to the ESS instruments ODIN, LOKI, DREAM, and BIFROST, depending on your competences.
- Select relevant samples for the experiments, with the option to conduct experiments on more complex samples within the chosen neutron methodologies.
- Design virtual experiments suitable for teaching at both BSc and MSc levels—targeting non‑expert students (method applications) as well as more advanced students (method development).
- Contribute to ensuring that the digital twins ultimately become a tool for training new neutron‑scattering users.
Required Qualification:
Essential Qualification:
- A PhD in physics, engineering, material science, or similar.
- Experience with performing and analysing neutron scattering experiments.
- Scientific programming skills in Python or similar
- McStas experience is an advantage
- An interest in developing high-quality university teaching and training.
- Ability to work independently and plan and carry out complicated tasks.
- Good communication skills in English, both written and spoken.
Preferred Qualification:
Not Available
Employment Conditions and Benefits:
Contract duration:
- The period of employment is 2.5 years. Starting date is 1 September 2026 (or according to mutual agreement). The position is a full-time position.
Benefits:
- 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.
- 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.
Application Process:
Documents Required:
- Application (cover letter)
- CV
- Academic Diplomas (MSc/PhD – in English)
- List of publications
- A short text (max. 1 A4 page) where you outline your research vision for this project.
How to apply:
- Your complete online application must be submitted no later than 1 May 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.
- Applications received after the deadline will not be considered.
About the Host Lab Group/Institution:
DTU Energy is focused on education, research, and development within functional materials and their application in sustainable energy technologies. In a sustainable energy system, a large part of the energy will be supplied by fluctuating sources such as solar and wind power. This makes it critically important to be able to convert and store the energy as needed. Our research areas include fuel and electrolysis cells, solar cells, and batteries as well as advanced filtration devices. We are ca. 300 employees. Additional information about the department can be found on http://www.energy.dtu.dk. Technology for people DTU develops technology for people. With our international elite research and study programmes, we are helping to create a better world and to solve the global challenges formulated in the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals. Hans Christian Ørsted founded DTU in 1829 with a clear mission to develop and create value using science and engineering to benefit society. That mission lives on today. DTU has 13,500 students and 6,000 employees. We work in an international atmosphere and have an inclusive, evolving, and informal working environment. DTU has campuses in all parts of Denmark and in Greenland, and we collaborate with the best universities around the world.
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Frequently Asked Questions:
Who can apply for a postdoctoral position?
Postdoctoral positions are open to candidates who have completed a PhD or will complete their doctoral degree before the start date. Eligibility requirements may vary depending on the funding scheme and host institution.
Can international candidates apply?
Yes. Most postdoctoral positions are open to international applicants. Visa sponsorship and work permit support are usually provided by the host institution, subject to local regulations.
Is prior postdoctoral experience required?
In most cases, prior postdoctoral experience is not mandatory. However, candidates with relevant research experience beyond the PhD may be preferred for certain positions.
What is the typical duration of a postdoctoral contract?
Postdoctoral contracts typically range from six months to three years, with the possibility of extension depending on funding availability and performance.
Are teaching responsibilities included?
Teaching responsibilities vary by institution and position. Some postdoctoral roles are research-only, while others may include limited teaching or supervision duties.
Can I apply for multiple postdoctoral positions?
Yes. Candidates are encouraged to apply for multiple suitable postdoctoral positions to increase their chances of selection.
Disclaimer:
This position is published for informational purposes. Please refer to the official application link for the most accurate and up-to-date details.