PhD scholarship in Focusing Neutron Optics - DTU Energy

Are you motivated by physics challenges that, if they are solved, may have a large impact on what science can be done in the future? Do you enjoy the principles of optics? Do diverse and challenging experiments inspire you?   

This PhD project is part of a research project that will develop and implement a focusing neutron optics prototype. Neutrons are inherently excellent probes for materials science and biotechnology; however, neutron scattering and imaging studies are strongly flux-limited. Our aim is to develop a neutron optics prototype, a so-called nested Wolter condenser, to increase the flux for a vast range of neutron methods by another factor 100. The optics is inspired by the X-ray thin film technology used in telescopes by NASA and ESA. In Europe, such X-ray optics is produced by DTU Space spin-out CHEXS. Our consortium, comprising DTU Energy, DTU Physics, CHEXS, the European Spallation Source (ESS), and the Paul Scherrer Institute (PSI), will transfer this technology to a focusing neutron condenser. 

Responsibilities and qualifications
This PhD project will focus on the characterization of the neutron optical properties of individual mirrors, the assembly of the mirrors in Wolter geometry, and, finally, the prototype neutron condenser module as fabricated by CHEXS. You will apply a diverse suite of experimental methods, including in-house X-ray reflectometry and micro-CT, transmission electron microscopy, and neutron reflectometry and imaging applying both white beam and time-of-flight neutrons at international large-scale facilities (e.g. PSI and ESS) for measuring the quality, shape and the neutron focusing performance of the Wolter optics. 

The work will be performed in close collaboration with a postdoc who will work on simulating the optimal design of the best-performing neutron focusing Wolter optics for the neutron beamline where the prototype will be installed. The ultimate goal of the PhD project is to demonstrate the functionality of the neutron focusing optics by imaging a real sample where the increased neutron flux is crucial, for instance, following in real time the fast charge-discharge cycles of a Li-ion battery.

Qualified applicants must have:

• Strong competences within solid state physics, materials science, solid state chemistry or similar.
• Experience with experimental setups and laboratory work.
• Experience with data analysis performed using Python or similar.
• Experience with optics and/or reflectometry for X-rays and/or neutrons.
• Personal drive and self-motivated.
• Good communication skills in English, both written and spoken.
• Being able to work independently and in a team.

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

Starting date is 1 August 2026 (or according to mutual agreement). The position is a full-time position.

You can read more about career paths at DTU here.

Further information 
Further information may be obtained from Professor Luise Theil Kuhn, luku@dtu.dk or phone 0045 51419371. Applications cannot be sent to this e-mail address, only applications sent via the online link as described below will be considered.

You can read more about DTU Energy at https://www.energy.dtu.dk/.

If you are applying from abroad, you may find useful information on working in Denmark and at DTU at DTU – Moving to Denmark. Furthermore, you have the option of joining our monthly free seminar “PhD relocation 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 than 17 April 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. 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
• The contact information for two potential references incl. name, position, e-mail, and phone number 

You may apply prior to ob­tai­ning your master's 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.

DTU Energy is focused on education, research, and development within functional materials, components, and systems for sustainable energy technologies. The technologies include fuel cells, electrolysis, power-to-x, batteries, and carbon capture. The research is based on strong competences in electrochemistry, atomic scale and multi-physics modelling, autonomous materials discovery, materials processing, and structural analyses. We also focus on educating engineering students at all levels, ranging from BSc, MSc, PhD to lifelong learning students. We have about 300 dedicated 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.