Postdoc in digital twins for neutron scattering methods

About the Postdoc in Digital Twins for Neutron Scattering Methods

Are you passionate about simulating neutron scattering measurements and see the potential in applying such virtual tools to support, or even replace, hands-on training of students and users? This Postdoc in digital twins for neutron scattering methods position is a part of the ACCESS project, Augmenting the STEM classroom by ESS digital twins. The ACCESS project is funded by the Novo Nordisk Foundation, and it is a collaboration between DTU – Technical University of Denmark, University of Copenhagen (UCPH) and the European Spallation Source (ESS).

Project Background: ACCESS and ESS

ESS in Lund, Sweden is a future large-scale research facility for neutron-based investigation of materials in a broad sense. The overall strategic objective of the ACCESS project is to develop even better education to train the scientists and engineers of the future. In addition to this postdoc position, the ACCESS project includes two other postdocs and one PhD position.

Role Objectives

The aim of this Postdoc in digital twins for neutron scattering methods position is to design, implement, and validate McStas digital twins of selected ESS instruments to a level of detail that mimics the authentic experience of the full experimental pipeline with a set of representative and relevant virtual samples to facilitate realistic training in state-of-the-art data analysis.

Responsibilities and Qualifications

In our ACCESS team, we have developed McStas, the leading Monte Carlo-based ray-tracing simulation tool to design and predict the performance of neutron instruments. The first simple McStas digital twins for teaching neutron methods exist, and we have successfully applied these.

Key Responsibilities:

• Design, implement, and test the full experimental pipeline for a set of authentic samples, including the associated data analysis.
• Validate the data produced by the digital twins by linking virtual experiments with real data that you acquire.
• Work with two neutron scattering methods chosen among imaging, small‑angle scattering, diffraction, and inelastic scattering, related to the ESS instruments ODIN, LOKI, DREAM, and BIFROST, depending on your competences.
• Select relevant samples for the experiments, with the option to conduct experiments on more complex samples within the chosen neutron methodologies.
• Design virtual experiments suitable for teaching at both BSc and MSc levels—targeting non‑expert students (method applications) as well as more advanced students (method development).
• Contribute to ensuring that the digital twins ultimately become a tool for training new neutron‑scattering users.

You will work closely with the ACCESS team that also comprises a similar postdoc, as well as a postdoc and a PhD student who will work on the didactical aspects of teaching using digital twins. We will employ a design-based research methodology by iterative cycles of design, testing, and refinement of the digital twins in real educational settings.

Required Qualifications:

• A PhD in physics, engineering, material science, or similar.
• Experience with performing and analysing neutron scattering experiments.
• Scientific programming skills in Python or similar.
• McStas experience is an advantage.
• An interest in developing high-quality university teaching and training.
• Ability to work independently and 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).

What DTU Offers

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 Employment Details

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

Further Information and Application

Further information may be obtained from Professor Luise Theil Kuhn, luku@dtu.dk or phone +45 51419371. Applications cannot be sent to this e-mail address. Your complete online application must be submitted no later than 1 May 2026 (23:59 Danish time). Applications must be submitted as one PDF file containing all materials: Application (cover letter), CV, Academic Diplomas (MSc/PhD – in English), List of publications, and a short text (max. 1 A4 page) outlining your research vision for this project. A similar postdoc position is announced in parallel at UCPH; if interested, apply via both portals.

About DTU Energy and DTU

DTU Energy is focused on education, research, and development within functional materials and their application in sustainable energy technologies, employing approximately 300 staff. DTU develops technology for people, with 13,500 students and 6,000 employees working in an international, inclusive, and informal environment across campuses in Denmark and Greenland. DTU was founded in 1829 by Hans Christian Ørsted to create value using science and engineering to benefit society.

Key skills/competency

• Neutron Scattering Simulation
• Digital Twins
• McStas
• Data Analysis
• Scientific Programming (Python)
• Experimental Design
• Materials Science
• Physics Research
• Engineering Principles
• Educational Technology Development