Postdoc in Multiphysics Modelling of Laser-Regolith Interaction under Vacuum

If you are eager to advance your scientific career and explore the frontiers of laser-material interaction, multiphase flow and additive manufacturing under extreme environments, this opportunity is for you.

At DTU, you will work at the intersection of computational fluid dynamics (CFD), discrete particle modelling and laser processing to understand how intense laser irradiation interacts with lunar regolith under high-vacuum conditions. Applications are invited for a postdoctoral position within the DFF Sapere Aude project MOONPRINT – Establishing the theoretical framework for large-area printing of moon dust in vacuum using light sources.

MOONPRINT investigates the fundamental physics governing laser-based processing of lunar regolith in vacuum. Unlike terrestrial laser processing, the extremely low ambient pressure encountered on the Moon can fundamentally alter evaporation, vapor-plume expansion, melt-pool dynamics and the transport and ejection of surrounding particles. Understanding the strongly coupled interaction between the molten material, vapor plume and regolith particles is therefore essential for developing robust laser-based manufacturing strategies for future lunar construction.

The project combines advanced multiphysics and multiscale simulations with dedicated laser-processing experiments under high vacuum. A central part of the research is the development of numerical models capable of describing the transition from continuum-dominated laser-material interaction close to the melt pool towards rarefied vapor transport under vacuum, and its coupling with the dynamics of individual regolith particles.

Responsibilities and qualifications
Your primary responsibility will be to develop an advanced computational framework for investigating laser-induced vapor-plume-particle interactions under vacuum conditions. This includes developing high-fidelity numerical models of heat and mass transfer, melting, evaporation, vapor-plume formation and expansion, and their interaction with regolith particles. Particular emphasis will be placed on understanding particle entrainment, acceleration, redistribution, and spattering during laser processing.

The work will combine continuum mechanics, kinetic-theory-based approaches, and particle-resolved simulations to support MOONPRINT's multiscale modelling strategy for material transport under lunar-like vacuum conditions.

You will validate the developed models against dedicated high-vacuum laser-processing experiments conducted within MOONPRINT and use the validated framework to investigate how laser-processing parameters influence process stability and material redistribution. The ultimate goal is to establish physical guidelines for large-area laser processing of lunar regolith.

You will collaborate closely with researchers working on laser-regolith experiments, process monitoring, and process development, helping to connect detailed simulations with the broader objectives of MOONPRINT. You will also contribute to supervision and teaching activities, publish in leading international journals, and present your work at international conferences.

We envision that you:

• Hold a PhD in mechanical engineering, materials science, computational engineering, manufacturing engineering, or a related field.
• Have a strong background in CFD and multiphysics modelling, including experience with laser-material interactions, advanced manufacturing processes, or related applications.
• Have experience in modelling multiphase systems involving melt, gas/vapor, and particle dynamics using CFD, DEM, Lagrangian particle tracking, or coupled CFD-particle methods.
• Are proficient in numerical modelling and programming, with experience using tools such as ANSYS Fluent, OpenFOAM, Python, C/C++, MATLAB, or similar platforms.
• Possess solid knowledge of heat transfer, fluid dynamics, phase-change phenomena, and can work independently and creatively on challenging research problems.

It is considered an advantage if you have:

• Knowledge of rarefied gas dynamics, kinetic theory, or modelling approaches bridging continuum and non-continuum flow regimes.
• Experience with high-performance computing, CFD workflow automation, surrogate or multi-fidelity modelling, and optimisation or uncertainty quantification methods.
• Experience with experimental validation, material characterization, or additive manufacturing processes.

As a formal qualification, you must hold a PhD degree (or equivalent).

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.

At DTU Construct, Section for Manufacturing Engineering, we have particular focus on a collaborative and inclusive research environment where innovation, knowledge sharing, and scientific excellence go hand in hand. We are committed to supporting the development of talented early-career researchers through close mentoring and strong professional networks. At the same time, we place great emphasis on well-being, flexibility, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance, creating an environment where both people and research can thrive.

Salary and terms of employment
The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. In addition, supplements can be negotiated in accordance with DTU’s salary structure for scientific staff: www.inside.dtu.dk/en/human-resources/during-employment/salary/salary-structures.

The period of employment is 2 years. Expected starting date is 1 December 2026 (or according to mutual agreement).

You can read more about career paths at DTU here.

Further information
Further information may be obtained from Associate Professor Mohamad Bayat (mbayat@dtu.dk).

You can read more about Department of Civil and Mechanical Engineering at www.https://construct.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.

Application procedure
Your complete online application must be submitted no later than 6 October 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:

• Application (cover letter)
• CV
• Academic Diplomas (MSc/PhD – in English)
• Transcripts from MSc. and Ph.D.
• List of publications

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 Civil and Mechanical Engineering develops and utilizes science and technical knowledge for the benefit of society and sustainable development. We undertake research, education, innovation, and scientific advice of the highest quality within building design and processes, building construction and safety, building energy and services, solid mechanics, fluid mechanics, materials technology, manufacturing engineering, engineering design and thermal energy systems.

DTU – For the benefit of society since 1829
DTU is one of Europe's 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 Europe's 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 13,800 students, 1,600 PhD students, and 6,500 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.