PhD Position - Additive Manufacturing and Resource Strategies for the Energy Transition

PhD Position - Additive Manufacturing and Resource Strategies for the Energy Transition

Additive manufacturing could be a game changer for the energy transition — or it could create new challenges. The extent to which it will influence future production systems, material flows, and energy systems is not yet fully understood. This is precisely where this doctoral thesis comes in. At the Institute of Climate and Energy Systems – Jülich System Analysis (ICE-2), we are researching the systemic prerequisites for a successful energy transition.

The Resources Strategies department focuses on the interactions between material and energy systems and how these influence the transition to a greenhouse gas‑neutral energy system. To this end, we develop integrated energy‑material scenarios up to the global level and the necessary models. On this basis, potential resource bottlenecks can be identified at an early stage and model‑based strategies for avoiding them can be identified.

The department thus makes a key contribution to identifying robust transformation paths with a secure energy and resource supply.

• Scientific analysis of additive manufacturing in the context of future production, material, and energy systems
• Research on the state of the art in additive manufacturing processes with a focus on costs, material usage, and energy requirements
• Investigation of materials used today and required in the future, as well as the underlying pre‑chains and feed stocks
• Analysis of the extent to which conventional manufacturing methods and materials can be replaced
• Assessment of the impact of additive manufacturing on material flows, resource demand, and energy systems
• Classification of additive manufacturing in resource strategies and system models for evaluating long‑term transformation paths

• Excellent master’s degree in engineering, materials science, industrial engineering, energy systems, or a comparable field of study
• Strong interest in additive manufacturing, materials, and resource issues
• Analytical thinking and interest in systemic issues
• Basic knowledge of quantitative methods, data analysis, or modeling is an advantage
• Very good command of written and spoken English with extensive vocabulary is required (at least C1 level according to the CEFR), ideally supported by a certificate confirming the language level. Knowledge of the German language is not mandatory but certainly appreciated
• Willingness to work in an interdisciplinary manner in an international research team
• Independent, structured way of working and motivation to pursue scientific research

We work on the very latest issues that impact our society and are offering you the chance to actively help in shaping the change! We support you in your work with:

• Research & Infrastructure: You will have access to excellent scientific and technical facilities for your work
• Team & Environment: You will work in a motivated team with an international and interdisciplinary focus – at one of the largest research institutions in Europe
• Networking & Exchange: You will participate in (international) conferences and project meetings and actively build your scientific network, with the chance to participate in an exciting collaborative EU‑funded research project with top‑tier partners
• Supervision & Support: We will accompany your doctoral studies with continuous, expert guidance from your academic supervisor
• Work‑life balance: We offer flexible working hours to help you balance your professional and personal life. You also have the option of flexible working (in terms of location), which is generally possible after consultation and in line with upcoming tasks and (on‑site) appointments
• Annual Leave: You get 30 days of annual leave
• Knowledge & Development: Your professional development is important to us – we support you specifically and individually e.g., through training and networking opportunities specifically for doctoral candidates (JuDocS)
• Health & well‑being: Your health is important to us. You can look forward to a comprehensive company health management programme with a wide range of options, including a beach volleyball court,…