Doctoral student in Solid Mechanics with focus on Microstructural changes and fracture phenomena in electroactive polymers - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

Solid Mechanics

The field of solid mechanics relates to methods and principles aimed at describing deformations, stresses and instability phenomena in deformable bodies. 

Solid mechanics is a core discipline in mechanical engineering and it is of fundamental importance also to related disciplines. The types of questions being dealt with carry high relevance for industrial applications. 

The research in solid mechanics at LTH focuses on constitutive mechanics, numerical methods, microstructure mechanics, structural optimization, fracture mechanics, stability analysis and experimental methods.

Work duties

Smart materials are designed for pre-defined functions and active components like actuators and sensors. The electro-active materials studied in this project have the ability to undergo large deformations under electromechanical loading. The behaviour of electroactive polymers is complex, advanced and challenging. Predictive simulations must be based on verified and validated models. The characteristics depend on the microstructure and its evolution. Cyclic loading, overloading and imperfect production result in fracture phenomena, which may stop the usability of the device. We are looking for a highly motivated person to develop physically sound models and efficient simulation frameworks in this area, such as implementing algorithms and applying these to experimentally relevant test cases and predicting device performance and predicting device performance.

In summary, the project aims at:

i) development of novel physics-based models for electroactive polymers and crack propagation;

ii) finite element implementation of these models and advanced simulation analysis;

iii) comparison of simulation results with experimental data and model calibration. Experimental data are partly taken from the literature, previous research at the Division of Solid Mechanics and, in addition, can also be performed in collaboration at MAX IV at Lund University.

The employment is part of a research project funded by the Swedish Research Council.

The main duties of doctoral students are to devote themselves to their research studies, which includes participating in research projects and third cycle courses. The work duties will also include teaching and other departmental duties (no more than 20%).

Admission requirements

A person meets the general admission requirements for third-cycle courses and study programs if she or he

• has been awarded a second-cycle qualification, or
• has satisfied the requirements for courses comprising at least 240 credits of which at least 60 credits were awarded in the second cycle, or
• has acquired substantially equivalent knowledge in some other way in Sweden or abroad.

A person meets the specific admission requirements for third cycle studies in Solid Mechanics if she or he has

• at least 90 credits in the field, including at least 45 second-cycle credits and a second-cycle degree project of 30 credits in the field, or
• a MSc in civil engineering, engineering physics, engineering mathematics or mechanical engineering.

Additional requirements

• Good knowledge in solid mechanics and computational mechanics.
• Very good oral and written proficiency in English.

Assesment criteria

Selection for third-cycle studies is based on the student’s potential to profit from such studies. The assessment of potential is made primarily based on academic results from the first and second cycle. Special attention is paid to the following:

1. Knowledge and skills relevant to the thesis project and the subject of study. These may be demonstrated through documents appended to the application and at a possible interview. 
2. An assessment of ability to work independently and to formulate and tackle research problems. The assessment could be made on the basis of the student’s degree project and a discussion of this at a possible interview.  
3. Written and oral communication skills.
4. Other experience relevant to the third-cycle studies, e.g. professional experience.

Other assement criteria

The ideal candidate for this position will have a strong interest in developing novel physics-based material models for complex phenomena in solid mechanics, such as electromechanical coupling at large strains and crack propagation. Expertise in the area of coupled problems is a plus. The ability to work both independently and as part of an international, multi-disciplinary team is also important.

• An interest in solid mechanics, in particular continuum mechanics at large strains and computational mechanics;.
• Knowledge in material modelling, in particular coupled problems;
• Knowledge in the finite element method (FEM).
• Experience in computer programming in Matlab®, Fortran, C, C++, or equivalent.

Consideration will also be given to good collaborative skills, drive and independence, as well as to how the applicant, through her or his experience and skills, is deemed to have the abilities necessary for successfully completing the third cycle program.

Terms of employment

Only those admitted to third cycle studies may be appointed to a doctoral studentship. Third cycle studies at LTH consist of full-time studies for 4 years. A doctoral studentship is a fixed-term employment of a maximum of 5 years (including 20% departmental duties). Doctoral studentships are regulated in the Higher Education Ordinance (1993:100), chapter 5, 1-7 §§.

Instructions on how to apply

Applications shall be written in English and include a cover letter stating the reasons why you are interested in the position and in what way the research project corresponds to your interests and educational background. The application must also contain a CV, degree certificate or equivalent, a copy of your Master’s thesis or equivalent and other documents you wish to be considered (grade transcripts, letters of recommendation etc.). In addition, a minimum of two references with full contact information must be provided.

You are also asked to answer the selection questions.