EngD position: Tire compounds filled short-cut fibers

EngD position:
Tire compounds filled with short‑cut fibers

Looking for a job that matters? Join the university of technology that puts people first – and shape new opportunities both for yourself and for ou...

Short‑cut fibers are promising advanced materials for enhancing the performance of elastomeric compounds and tires. The use of such fibers requires new compounding strategies to optimize compound performance.

In the proposed study, both dipped and undipped short‑cut fibers will be incorporated into tire compounds. To improve fiber dispersion, a pre‑dispersion or surface treatment will be conducted, followed by optimized mixing and the use of modern, high‑performance coupling agents. Additionally, compounding will include traditional particulate fillers (such as carbon black and silica) and other essential ingredients to achieve optimal compound properties and tire performance.

The anticipated improvements in reinforcement and reductions in hysteresis will be evaluated.

• Enhance mechanical strength and modulus by incorporating lightweight reinforcing materials
• Improve cut and tear resistance to increase durability
• Reduce internal friction to enhance performance through lower rolling resistance

The newly developed short‑cut fiber‑filled compounds will be utilized in a tire prototype to evaluate improvements in overall tire performance.

This study of fiber‑reinforced elastomeric composites aims to support the development of innovative, high‑performance tire products, focusing on weight reduction, increased strength, and improved rolling resistance.

• Hold a Master's degree in Materials Science, Chemical Engineering or a closely related field.
• Relevant research experience is highly desirable, particularly in:
  Rubber compounding, mixing and performance testing
• Strong command of English (written and spoken) is required

• Contract at Apollo for a two‑year Engineering Doctorate (EngD) position.
• A position in an inspiring, multidisciplinary and international environment.
• Excellent facilities for professional and personal development.

Are you interested in being part of our team? Please send your application by January 18th 2026, via the "apply now" button and include:

• Contact details of at least 2 references.

Screening is part of the selection procedure.

Interviews will be held in January.

The Faculty of Engineering Technology (ET) engages in education and research of Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering and Industrial Design Engineering. We enable society and industry to innovate and create value using efficient, solid and sustainable technology. We are part of a ‘people‑first' university of technology, taking our place as an internationally leading centre for smart production, processes and devices in five domains:
Health Technology, Maintenance, Smart Regions, Smart Industry and Sustainable Resources. Our faculty is home to about 2,900 Bachelor's and Master's students, 550 employees and 150 PhD candidates. Our educational and research programmes are closely connected with UT research institutes Mesa+ Institute, Tech Med Center and Digital Society Institute.

Title:

EngD position:
Tire compounds filled with short‑cut fibers

Look for a job that matters? Join the university of technology that puts people first – and shape new opportunities both for yourself and for ou ...