Do you want to unravel if induction heating of magnetic nanoparticles can lead to nanoscale hotspots with implications for both biomedical treatments and green technology? Then keep reading.
Magnetic nanoparticles exposed to high frequency magnetic fields can produce heat via induction heating, leading to a significant temperature increase in the medium where the nanoparticles are dispersed. This is of interest for magnetic hyperthermia in cancer and endometriosis treatment, electrification of thermo-catalytic reactions, and CO2 capture and storage. However, it remains disputed whether magnetic nanoparticles can become localized hotspots without a comparable temperature increase in their dispersion media. Nanoscale hotspots are particularly appealing for applications: If they exist, they could selectively destroy vital cell parts without the need to heat entire cells in medical treatments or they could allow catalytic reactions to run at a reduced global temperature. Some experiments have reported large temperature differences at the interface between the nanoparticles and their dispersion media while these results are not supported by theory (see also our recent work on sub-Kelvin resolution X-ray diffraction thermometry). The aim of the postdoc position is to determine whether nanoscale hotspots exist and if they do, then the theory of nanoscale heat transport needs revision. If they do not, other causes must be identified to explain their apparent observations.
Qualifications
The qualified candidate for the position should ideally have:
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.
The period of employment is 2 years. Starting date is 1 December 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
The position is based at DTU Physics in the department’s Section MAGNET for Magnetic materials and neutron scattering.
Further information about the position may be obtained from Professor and Head of Section Cathrine Frandsen ([email protected]).
You can read more about DTU Physics and the Section MAGNET at www.physics.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:
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 – 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.
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DTU is a technical university focused on research and education.