PhD student position in computational material mechanics - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

Within the Division of Applied Mechanics, we work with research in materials mechanics with applications primarily in the life sciences, materials- and structural development, and energy related areas. The research conducted is often multidisciplinary and ranges from applied projects in close collaboration with industry to fundamental academic research. A doctoral degree in the subject guarantees many exciting future opportunities both in academia and business, nationally and internationally.

Project description:The research project focuses on the development of algorithms for numerical modeling of porous materials using high-resolution phase field models. Phase field models have become extremely popular in materials mechanics, largely due to their versatility and simplicity; the models can, for example, handle cracks that initiate, grow and branch without any need for model-adapted criteria. In the project, the models will mainly be used to analyse porous and/or randomly structured heterogeneous materials in order to design implants for the treatment of, for example, bone fractures or structures for tissue regeneration. Production of such complex porous geometries has recently been made possible with the help of modern technology for 3D printing. A number of sophisticated experiments at synchrotron light facilities are a natural part of the project as well as a flora of national and international collaborations. A long-term goal is to provide useful numerical engineering tools to Swedish industry for optimal design of load-bearing structures with complex geometries. An interest in mechanics, physics and programming is an absolute requirement.

Work duties: 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 can also include teaching and other departmental duties (no more than 20%).

The employment is part of a project that aims to establish numerical tools to design optimal structures and materials for implants and tissue generation using computational techniques. The project is especially focused on developing phase field methods in finite element programs that can be used at both the macroscopic level and at the microscopic level. Part of the project consists of designing microstructures with tailored properties. The work is fundamental and includes theory formation, numerical analyses and verifying experimental studies. It is interdisciplinary with strong links to materials science through the characterisation of microstructural changes that affect the fracture properties of an implant, where both brittle and ductile fracture behaviours will be taken into account, as well as static and dynamic processes. The work takes place in an international environment and the doctoral student is expected to publish his/her studies in scientific journals and present them at international conferences. The doctoral student will be supervised by researchers in both solid mechanics theory and materials science, but also collaborate with younger researchers in related projects

Qualification requirements: The candidate must have a Master's degree in engineering with a focus on physics, mechanical engineering or equivalent. Furthermore, knowledge and skills in solid mechanics, mathematics and physics as well as adequate knowledge in programming is required. Previous experience of numerical modeling in mechanics is an advantage.

We require very good oral and written proficiency in English.

The applicant needs to be determined, structured and able to work efficiently both individually and in groups.

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

-  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.

Rules governing PhD students are set out in the Higher Education Ordinance chapter 5, §§ 1-7 and in Uppsala University's rules and guidelines http://regler.uu.se/?languageId=1.

Instruction for application: The application should contain a brief description of  research interests and relevant experiences, CV, copies of diplomas and grades, degree project (or a draft thereof) and other documents that the applicant wishes to invoke.

Salary: According to local agreement for PhD students.

Starting date: As soon as possible.

Type of employment: Temporary position according to the Higher Education Ordinance chapter 5 § 7.

Scope of employment: 100 %

For further information about the position please contact: Professor Per Isaksson, per.isaksson@angstrom.uu.se or professor Cecilia Persson, cecilia.persson@angstrom.uu.se

Please submit your application by 16 October 2020, UFV-PA 2020/3122.

Are you considering moving to Sweden to work at Uppsala University? If so, you will find a lot of information about working and living in Sweden at www.uu.se/joinus. You are also welcome to contact International Faculty and Staff Services at ifss@uadm.uu.se.