Postdoc in micromagnetic modeling of new rare-earth-free permanent magnet - DTU Energy

At the Technical University of Denmark, Department of Energy Conversion and Storage (DTU Energy) we are looking for a postdoc to work on micromagnetic modeling of a novel rare-earth-free permanent magnet system.

205 years ago, the founder of the Technical University of Denmark, Prof. H.C. Ørsted, discovered electromagnetism. Since Ørsted’s initial discovery, magnets have become omni-present in our daily life, and they are essential in the green transition as the main components in wind turbines and electric motors in e.g. electric cars. However, the strongest magnets today contain rare-earth metals, which are associated with uncertain supply chains, pollution due to mining, and geopolitical issues. Therefore, research on alternative rare-earth-free magnets is a top priority and paramount for green and sustainable growth.

In a close-collaboration research project between three DTU departments, we will investigate if we can realize a new rare-earth-free permanent magnet using novel processing routes. We will model, synthesize and characterize the rare-earth-free permanent magnet, with the aim of improving its properties in an iterate matter throughout the project.

Responsibilities and qualifications

For this modeling project, we are looking for a postdoc with expertise in micromagnetic modeling to model the unique magnetic properties resulting from the microstructure of the targeted rare-earth-free permanent magnet. You will use our state-of-the-art open source micromagnetic model MagTense to perform this modeling work. MagTense is based on a core implemented in the Fortran programming language, and it relies on the platform CUDA for parallelization of the computation over several GPUs’ cores, and has interfaces with Matlab and Python for ease of use. You will research determining the ideal microstructure, for example grain size, shape and composition, of the studied rare-earth-free permanent magnet system and in close collaborations with postdocs at two other DTU departments, DTU Physics and DTU Construct, iterate on the synthesis of the novel permanent magnet.

Qualified applicants must have:

• PhD degree in physics, astronomy, engineering, computer science or similar.
• Experience with micromagnetic modeling and magnetism
• Experience with Fortran or high-performance numerical methods
• Experience with writing and publishing scientific articles.
• Ability to work independently, to plan and carry out complicated tasks.
• Good communication skills in English, both written and spoken.

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.

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.

Starting date is 1 January 2027 (or according to mutual agreement). The position is a full-time 2-year position.

You can read more about career paths at DTU here.

Further information

Further information may be obtained from Professor Rasmus Bjørk, +45 46 77 58 95, [email protected]

You can read more about the Department at 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.

Application procedure

Your complete online application must be submitted no later than 1 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)
• 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.

The Department of Energy Conversion and Storage (DTU Energy) focuses on research and development of 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 on 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. Read more about us at www.energy.dtu.dk.

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.