PhD scholarship in Molecular Dynamics Simulations for Coatings DTU Chemical Engineering

Are you a talented and motivated student looking to join a world-leading research team

We welcome candidates to contribute to the advancement of next-generation sustainable coatings through molecular dynamics simulations with particular focus on molecular organization in coating matrices water interactions and transport and interfacial phenomena governing adhesion. The project will combine computational modelling with targeted experimental validation to establish structureproperty relationships that support the design of more durable and sustainable coating technologies.

The position is scheduled to start on August 1 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter and the appointment will be at the CoaST Research Centre within the Department of Chemical Engineering at the Technical University of Denmark (DTU).

Responsibilities and qualifications
Understanding coating performance requires insight into molecular and interfacial phenomena that are often difficult to resolve experimentally alone. This project will use molecular dynamics simulations to investigate how coating components organize within complex matrices how water interacts with and moves through coating networks and how molecular-scale interactions influence adhesion to substrates. Selected experimental validation will be included to strengthen the connection between simulation results and coating performance.

If you share our passion and interest in forefront research at the interface of simulation materials science and coating technology you might be the person we are looking for.

You must have a relevant education in chemical engineering chemistry applied chemistry materials science or a similar field. Building on this foundation we will rely on your strong interest in molecular modelling computational methods and the physicochemical understanding of addition you should be selfmotivated and enthusiastic about scientific computing and interdisciplinary research.

We also expect a high level of soft skills including teamwork research center activities department activities reporting and scientific presentations.

You must have a two-year masters degree (120 ECTS points) or a similar degree with an academic level equivalent to a two-year masters degree.

Approval and Enrolment
The scholarship for the PhD degree is subject to academic approval and the candidate will be enrolled in one of the general degree programmes at DTU. For information about our enrolment requirements and the general planning of the PhD study programme please see DTUs rules for the PhD education.

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.

Salary and appointment terms
The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. The allowance will be agreed upon with the relevant union.

The period of employment is 3 years.

You can read more about career paths at DTU here.

Further information
Further information may be obtained from Assistant Professor Narayanan Rajagopalan.

You can read more about DTUs Department of Chemical and Bio-chemical Engineering at DTU Chemical Engineering.

If you are applying from abroad you may find useful information on working in Denmark and at DTU at DTU Moving to you have the option of joining our monthly free seminar PhDrelocation to Denmark and startup Zoom seminar for all questions regarding the practical matters of moving to Denmark and working as a PhD at DTU.

Application procedure
Your complete online application must be submitted no later than1 May2026 (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:

• A letter motivating the application (cover letter)
• Curriculum vitae
• Grade transcripts and BSc/MSc diploma (in English) including official description of grading scale

You may apply prior to obtaining your masters degree but cannot begin before having received it.

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.

The Hempel Foundation Coatings Science and Technology Centre (CoaST) was established at the Technical University of Denmark DTU as per 1 January 2017 based on a generous donation by the Hempel Foundation. CoaST Research Centre supports development production and use of high performance organic coatings. Working along the whole value chain CoaST research activities cover organic polymer based coating technologies from raw materials over formulation test and characterization to production and application. By joining CoaST you will become part of a highly ambitious young research team under continuous development and establishment. Our group includes around 25 PhD students and a total of about 55 members creating a colorful and collaborative community. With more than 12 nationalities represented we offer a truly international and intercultural environment where English is our shared working language.

The Department of Chemical and Biochemical Engineering at DTU is a leader in innovative teaching and research built on core technical subjects and engineering scientific disciplines. The teaching and research covers separation processes reaction engineering dynamics and process regulation process and facility planning unit operations heat transmission fluid mechanics and applied thermodynamics. The Department enjoys very close relations with international partners and especially a wide range of industrial companies.

DTU For the benefit of society since 1829
DTU is one of Europes 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 Europes 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 13800 students 1600 PhD students and 6500 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.