Interested in modelling intricate morphologies of novel advanced aerospace composites? Curious about both computational modelling and experimental characterization? Apply for a PhD now!
Job description
The challenge:
The interfaces between thermosets and thermoplastics can lead to interpenetrating morphologies, like spinodal decomposition. Such an interphase formation is driven by thermoset monomer diffusion followed by reaction-induced phase separation. However, the detailed understanding of the underlying physics governing the formation of such interfaces and their resulting mechanical properties remains an open challenge.
Project details:
This PhD project aims to develop predictive computational phase field models for interdiffusion and phase separation to create tailored interphase morphologies between thermoplastic and thermoset polymer matrices. Experimental characterization, advanced imaging and mechanical testing will support the development of the numerical models. Overall, this project will contribute towards a fundamental understanding towards joining thermoset and thermoplastic composites and toughening architectures of fibre-reinforced composites, with multiple applications in the aerospace sector in mind.
Why Join Us?
- Lead a pioneering project at the forefront of composites for aerospace applications.
- Develop interdisciplinary collaborations across different universities and industrial partners.
- Access state-of-the-art resources, including computational and experimental facilities.
- Supervise MSc researchers.
- Receive mentorship and support in developing your academic career.
The position presents a unique opportunity to be jointly embedded in two research groups led by Dr. Sid Kumar (Mechanical Engineering, TU Delft) and Prof. Clemens Dransfeld (Aerospace Engineering, TU Delft).
Requirements
- A Masters degree in a relevant field (e.g., applied mechanics, mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, materials science, applied physics).
- Experienced in computational modelling, e.g., numerical solvers for partial differential equations, phase field modelling, or finite element methods. Please note that experience with commercial software Abaqus and Ansys are not applicable here.
- Strong programming skills (Python, MATLAB, C/C++, etc.)
- Interest or experience in experimental testing of composites
- A passion for cutting-edge research and the drive to solve complex problems.
- Excellent communication and teamwork abilities.
Doing a PhD at TU Delft requires English proficiency at a certain level to ensure that the candidate is able to communicate and interact well, participate in English-taught Doctoral Education courses, and write scientific articles and a final thesis. For more details please check theGraduate Schools Admission Requirements.
Conditions of employment
Doctoral candidates will be offered a 4-year period of employment in principle, but in the form of 2 employment contracts. An initial 1,5 year contract with an official go/no go progress assessment within 15 months. Followed by an additional contract for the remaining 2,5 years assuming everything goes well and performance requirements are met.
Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, increasing from € 2770 per month in the first year to € 3539 in the fourth year. As a PhD candidate you will be enrolled in the TU Delft Graduate School. The TU Delft Graduate School provides an inspiring research environment with an excellent team of supervisors, academic staff and a mentor. The Doctoral Education Programme is aimed at developing your transferable, discipline-related and research skills.
The TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, discounts on health insurance, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged.
For international applicants, TU Delft has theComing to Delft Service. This service provides information for new international employees to help you prepare the relocation and to settle in the Netherlands. The Coming to Delft Service offers aDual Career Programmefor partners and they organise events to expand your (social) network.
TU Delft (Delft University of Technology)
Delft University of Technology is built on strong foundations. As creators of the world-famous Dutch waterworks and pioneers in biotech, TU Delft is a top international university combining science, engineering and design. It delivers world class results in education, research and innovation to address challenges in the areas of energy, climate, mobility, health and digital society. For generations, our engineers have proven to be entrepreneurial problem-solvers, both in business and in a social context.
At TU Delft we embrace diversity as one of our corevaluesand we activelyengageto be a university where you feel at home and can flourish. We value different perspectives and qualities. We believe this makes our work more innovative, the TU Delft community more vibrant and the world more just. Together, we imagine, invent and create solutions using technology to have a positive impact on a global scale. That is why we invite you to apply. Your application will receive fair consideration.
Challenge. Change. Impact!
Faculty Mechanical, Maritime and Materials Engineering
From chip to ship. From machine to human being. From idea to solution. Driven by a deep-rooted desire to understand our environment and discover its underlying mechanisms, research and education at the 3mE faculty focusses on fundamental understanding, design, production including application and product improvement, materials, processes and (mechanical) systems.
3mE is a dynamic and innovative faculty with high-tech lab facilities and international reach. It's a large faculty but also versatile, so we can often make unique connections by combining different disciplines. This is reflected in 3mE's outstanding, state-of-the-art education, which trains students to become responsible and socially engaged engineers and scientists. We translate our knowledge and insights into solutions to societal issues, contributing to a sustainable society and to the development of prosperity and well-being. That is what unites us in pioneering research, inspiring education and (inter)national cooperation.
Clickhereto go to the website of the Faculty of Mechanical, Maritime and Materials Engineering. Do you want to experience working at our faculty? Thesevideoswill introduce you to some of our researchers and their work.
Additional information
Het salaris bedraagt €2770 - €3539