Institut "Jožef Stefan", Reactor Engineering Division
The Jožef Stefan Institute (Ljubljana, Slovenia) is offering a fully funded four-year PhD position (Young Researcher Programme) starting in October 2026 in the field of computational modelling of nuclear materials.
We are looking for a PhD student to strengthen our research team in the field of computational structural mechanics, structural integrity and ageing of nuclear materials. Our research focuses on understanding how microstructural degradation mechanisms affect the structural integrity and lifetime of nuclear components. We develop multiscale computational models that connect component-scale loading conditions with grain-scale degradation processes in polycrystalline metallic alloys. Particular emphasis is placed on understanding degradation and cracking mechanisms at the microstructural level and their impact on component integrity. The PhD research topic will be along these directions.
The PhD student will work at the Reactor Engineering Division at the Jožef Stefan Institute under the supervision of Dr. Samir El Shawish. The position is based in Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia, offering a high quality of life and easy access to major European research centres.
We are looking for candidates holding a Master’s degree in physics, mechanical engineering, materials science, nuclear engineering, computational engineering, applied mathematics, or a related field. Strong programming skills in Python or similar scientific programming languages are required. Experience with finite-element modelling and high-performance computing is beneficial but not required. We expect a high level of motivation and diligence from the candidate, and we offer the possibility of conducting top scientific research and an excellent starting point for the development of a scientific career. The successful candidate will:
- work on cutting-edge research relevant to the long-term operation of nuclear power plants,
- publish in international peer-reviewed journals,
- collaborate with leading European research institutions,
- have access to high-performance computing resources,
- participate in international conferences and research visits abroad.
Please see the Call for tenders and submit the application to mr2026@ijs.si no later than 23 August 2026.
For informal enquiries regarding the position and research topic, please contact Dr. Samir El Shawish samir.elshawish@ijs.si.
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