Postdoctoral position in System Reliablity Analysis of Timber Structures

Description of the workplace

We as the Division of Structural Engineering strive for a safe, economically efficient, and sustainable design and integrity management of load bearing structures in buildings and infrastructures throughout their life cycle. Climate change and urbanization are phenomena raising a number of challenges, yet also creating opportunities for climate change adaptation innovations. Buildings and infrastructure are to withstand more intensive storms, more precipitation, flooding and increased atmospheric loads. Urbanization and an increasing population create demands for more housing and further extension of the infrastructure. At the same time, requirements on limiting the climate and environmental effects of construction point at the need of more rational use of construction materials and structural health information. We are focussed on contributing to safe, sustainable, cost-efficient structures, building systems and production methods.

At the division we are about 15 researching staff working within different research areas (wood and biobased materials, concrete, masonry, risk & reliability & value of information). You will be part of the research group that works with different questions regarding risk & reliability, but also with the timber research group. We run a large laboratory and have access to the civil engineering laboratory in V-building at LTH.

The Department of Building & Environmental Technology has a stimulating and international environment consisting of doctoral students, postdocs and teachers from many parts of the world. Here, research and teaching take place in an open and progressive climate with challenges and collaborations both within academia and with industry partners, both nationally and internationally. The work environment is characterized by commitment, cooperation, creativity and personal responsibility.

Subject description

The research subject is the system reliability analysis of timber structures, addressing the complexities of multiple components, connections, and failure modes. Specifically, the role of joints in relation to the overall structural integrity and system failure probability will be investigated. Given the computational demands of system reliability analyses, it is essential to use computationally efficient methods such as meta-modeling and importance sampling. Based on the research results, recommendations for designing timber structures to enhance their reliability and safety will be developed. The research subject is related to a FORMAS project and is organized in close collaboration with the Technical University of Dresden, Germany, and the EMPA, Zurich, Switzerland.

Work duties

This postdoctoral position is designed to develop independence as a researcher and to create opportunities for further development. You are also highly encouraged to support education activities in the wider subject area (up to 20% of working hours). The position includes the opportunity for three weeks of training in higher education teaching and learning. Your specific work duties are:

• Research within the subject area of system reliability analyses for timber structures
• Teaching in first, second and third cycles of studies
• Supervision of degree projects and supervision support for doctoral students
• Contribution to development of the research area including applying for research funding

Qualification requirements 

Appointment to a post-doctoral position requires that the applicant has a PhD, or an international degree deemed equivalent to a PhD, within the subject of the position. The certificate proving the qualification requirement is met, must be received before the employment decision is made. Priority will be given to candidates who have graduated no more than three years ago before the last day for application. Under special circumstances, the doctoral degree can have been completed earlier.

Additional requirements

• You have proficiency or extensive experience in structural reliability analysis and probabilistic modelling
• You have experience in analysis of timber structures
• You have published in high quality scientific journals in the subject area
• Very good oral and written proficiency in English

Assessment criteria 

This is a career development position primarily focused on research. The position is intended as an initial step in a career, and the assessment of the applicants will primarily be based on their research qualifications and potential as researchers. Particular emphasis will be placed on research skills within the subject.

For appointments to a post-doctoral position, the following shall form the assessment criteria:

• A good ability to develop and conduct high quality research.
• Teaching skills. 

Other qualifications:

• Independence in research work
• Teaching experience at university level
• Ability to collaborate within projects and working teams

Consideration will also be given to how the applicant’s experience and skills complement and strengthen ongoing research within the department, and how they stand to contribute to its future development.

We offer

Lund University is a public authority which means that employees get particular benefits, generous annual leave and an advantageous occupational pension scheme. Read more on the University website about being a Lund University employee Work at Lund University.

Further information

This is a full-time, fixed-term employment of 2 years. The period of employment is determined in accordance with the agreement “Avtal om tidsbegränsad anställning som postdoktor” (“Agreement on fixed-term employment as a post-doctoral fellow”). We expect you to start the position as soon as possible.

How to apply

Applications shall be written in English. The application should include a CV (including a list of publications) and a personal letter justifying your interest in the position and how it matches your qualifications. The application should also include a degree certificate or equivalent and any other document to which you would like to draw attention (copies of grade transcripts, details of referees, letters of recommendation, etc.)”  

Welcome to apply!