Postdoctoral Researcher in Auger Analysis of Interfacial Segregation in Low-Alloy Steels Mines Saint-Étienne, France

Summary

Mines Saint-Étienne seeks a full‑time postdoctoral researcher for a 24‑month fixed‑term position at the Georges Friedel Laboratory (LGF) within its Materials and Structures Science centre. The project, part of the SIRA research chair with Framatome and EDF, aims to develop Auger spectroscopy methods to quantify interfacial segregation in low‑alloy 16MND5 steels used in pressurised‑water reactors. Responsibilities include method development, hydrogen‑assisted fracture studies, quantitative modelling, and high‑resolution analysis of carbon, carbides and grain‑boundary segregation. Candidates must hold a PhD in materials science, physics or chemistry and have experience with transmission electron microscopy, teamwork and communication skills. Salary follows Institut Mines‑Télécom pay rules; the deadline is 1 November 2026.

Key Facts

Department	Georges Friedel Laboratory (LGF)
Position Type	Full-time Postdoctoral Researcher
Discipline	Materials Science
Research Area	Auger Analysis of Interfacial Segregation in Low-Alloy Steels
Degree Required	PhD in materials science, physics, or chemistry
Experience	Experience in transmission electron microscopy
Salary	Determined according to candidate’s profile and Institut Mines-Télécom pay rules
Funding	Salary
Contract Duration	24-month fixed-term
Deadline	2026-11-01
Required Documents	CV, cover letter, recommendation letter

About the Project

The research will create new Auger spectroscopy techniques to measure interfacial segregation of alloying elements in low‑alloy 16MND5 steels, investigate hydrogen‑induced intergranular fracture, and develop quantitative models for grain‑boundary segregation without requiring fracture samples.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop new Auger spectroscopy methods for interfacial segregation
• Investigate hydrogen‑assisted intergranular fracture
• Create quantitative models for Auger analysis of alloying‑element segregation
• Use high‑resolution Auger spectroscopy to analyse carbon, carbides and interfaces
• Develop a method to quantify grain‑boundary segregation from polished sections
• Collaborate with academic and industrial partners
• Travel within the Saint‑Étienne metropolitan area as needed

Required Skills

• Good knowledge of materials science
• Experience in transmission electron microscopy
• Teamwork and effective communication with academic and industrial partners

Who Should Apply

Applicants with a PhD in materials science, physics or chemistry, who have experience in transmission electron microscopy and can work collaboratively with academic and industrial partners.

About the Employer

Mines Saint‑Étienne, through the École des Mines de Saint‑Étienne, is offering a postdoctoral position at its Georges Friedel Laboratory (LGF) within the Materials and Structures Science centre, in partnership with Framatome and EDF under the SIRA research chair.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the application deadline?

The deadline is 1 November 2026.

What documents must be submitted?

Applicants must provide a CV, a cover letter and a recommendation letter.

What is the contract length?

The position is a 24‑month fixed‑term contract.

Where is the position located?

It is based at École des Mines de Saint‑Étienne in Saint‑Étienne, France.

How is the salary determined?

Salary will be set according to the candidate’s profile and Institut Mines‑Télécom pay rules.