Research Assistant position in Applied Mechanics with focus on Computed Tomography

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About the department
The Department of Materials Science and Engineering aims to be an environment for successful and valuable research and education with a focus on materials science solutions for important societal challenges. Our department is an exciting workplace with research in a broad technology-related area, from basic research to large-scale applied research, and with close contacts with students through the department's involvement in engineering and master's programs. Our research and teaching are conducted within seven divisions with different research focus.

Read more about us here

About the division
The Division of Applied Mechanics conducts advanced research in the mechanics of materials, with primary applications in the life sciences, materials and structural development, and energy-related fields. Our work is often multidisciplinary, spanning from fundamental academic investigations to applied projects carried out in collaboration with industry partners.

Project description
The advertised position is tied to the project “Predicting moisture content in timber drying using machine learning” financed by a collaborative WISE-WASP initiative. This project is in collaboration with the Division of Statistics and Machine Learning (STIMA) at Linköping University. The project aims to develop a machine learning model suitable to predict moisture content and moisture changes in wood based on tomographic images. At the division of Applied Mechanics, we will focus on creating datasets containing lab-based and synchrotron data. At the division, we are looking for a research assistant that is interested in designing experiments using X-ray computed tomography and who is eager to work in an interdisciplinary project that contributes to a more sustainable kiln drying process. 

Work duties
As a research assistant in the WISE-WASP project you will be responsible for the development and execution of drying experiments. The experiments are a combination of in-situ four-dimensional lab-based and synchrotron-based set-ups. The beamtime needed for these experiments has already been confirmed. In addition, you will be working on an image-processing algorithm that determines moisture content from tomographic data. An important part of your work duties is to collaborate with the Division of Statistics and Machine Learning at Linköping University, where a trained machine learning model is developed.

Qualification requirements:
To qualify for the position of research assistant, a Swedish master’s degree or foreign equivalent is required at the start of employment in the field of mechanical engineering or related fields.

We require documented knowledge and experience of:

• designing and executing non-destructive imaging techniques, including experimental design, experimental methodology, material selection, specimen preparation, and prototyping
• programming languages Python and C++

We require good written and oral skills in English.

Additional qualifications
Prior use of image processing techniques and experimental equipment in large experimental facilities, such as clean rooms or synchrotron.

Personal qualities such as good cooperation and communication skills are very important. You have to be purposeful, structured and able to work effectively both individually and in a group.

Instructions for application
The application shall include:

• A short cover letter in which you describe yourself and why you are suitable for this position (max 1 page)
• CV (max 1 page)
• Copy of Master’s degree, grades and other merits of relevance. Translations into English or Swedish if the original documents have not been issued in any of these languages.
• Name and contact information to at least two reference persons (e-mail address and phone no.).

It is preferable that the application is written in English.

We will during the application period read applications and call for interviews.

About the employment
The employment is a temporary position, 6 months. Scope of employment 100 %. Starting date 11 August or as agreed upon. Placement: Uppsala

For further information about the position please contact: Dr. Sara Florisson sara.florisson@angstrom.uu.se

Please submit your application by July 2 2025, UFV-PA 2025/1851

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