PhD Candidate in Structural Engineering (On-site)

Job summary

This PhD scholarship focuses on the diagnosis and prognosis of fatigue damage in steel structures, particularly steel bridges, over a three-year period. The role aims to develop a multi-component framework for effective fatigue assessment and maintenance strategies to enhance the longevity of critical infrastructure.

Qualifications

• A two-year master's degree (120 ECTS points) or equivalent in Civil or Mechanical Engineering or related fields.
• Strong background in Structural Dynamics and Finite Element Modelling.
• Knowledge of Fracture Mechanics and fatigue analysis is preferred.
• Experience in coding (e.g., Python) and structural analysis software (e.g., Abaqus, OpenSees) is desirable.
• Familiarity with virtual sensing techniques and state estimation methods is advantageous.
• Fluent in written and spoken English.

Responsibilities

• Develop and enhance multi-fidelity finite element models focusing on fatigue hot-spot analysis.
• Estimate loads and stresses using virtual sensing techniques and multi-nature sensing data.
• Create advanced fracture mechanics models for crack simulation and fatigue life prediction.
• Investigate fatigue mitigation strategies to improve material efficiency.
• Integrate components into a comprehensive diagnostic and prognostic framework.
• Prepare scientific publications and present research findings at conferences.
• Support teaching activities and co-supervise BSc and MSc projects.

Skills

• Independent and proactive in research planning and execution.
• Creative and driven by scientific curiosity.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills, with a commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration.

Education

• A master's degree in a relevant engineering field is required.

Tools

• Proficiency in structural analysis software (e.g., Abaqus, OpenSees) and coding (e.g., Python).