1 PhD position in Multi-scale modelling of thermo-mechanical fatigue in Netherlands | Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e)

Physics of Failure: Programme description The objective of the programme 'Physics of Failure' is to unravel the physical complexity of the initiation and development of damage and failure in complex and dynamically changing microstructures in metals. Existing physical models of the initiation and propagation of damage in metallic materials are limited in terms of the specific microstructural features and physics accounted for. The physics of damage involves interacting processes and mechanisms at the nano-, micro- and macro-scale, i.e. from processes at the nano-scale (atomic behaviour, dislocation dynamics, interaction with grain boundaries and interphase boundaries) through damage development within the grain structure at a micro-scale to macroscopic failure. The systematic scientific approach adopted in the programme will lead to comprehensive physical models of damage and failure in metallic microstructures, enabling predictive modelling for a more accurate assessment of performance and (remaining) life time of metallic components. The programme combines projects that put an experimental focus on the microstructural damage mechanisms in metals, as well as projects focusing on modelling the accompanying physics across the length scales. The intensive interaction between the projects enables the development of an in-depth view on the evolution of damage and failure in metallic microstructures, which goes well beyond the state-of-the-art in the field.

Job description

This PhD position is available in the Mechanics of Materials group led by Prof.dr.ir. Marc Geers (FOM working group FOM-E-18). This PhD project is part of a FOM Industrial Partnership Programme (IPP) 'Physics of Failure', which aims at unraveling the physical complexity of the initiation and development of damage and failure in complex and dynamically changing microstructures in metals. The work is to be carried out in close collaboration with other PhD students, faculty members, and industrial partners, of which DAF Trucks is directly involved in this particular project.

Job requirements

Talented, enthusiastic candidates with excellent analytical and communication skills are encouraged to apply. A MSc degree in Mechanical Engineering, Applied Mathematics or Computational Physics or a related discipline is required, as well as a strong background in mechanics and computational methods. Experience in homogenization, multiscale modeling, micromechanics, and non-linear finite element techniques are of benefit.