PhD on mechanics of polymer composites

Eindhoven University of Technology is an internationally top-ranking university in the Netherlands that combines scientific curiosity with a hands-on attitude. Our spirit of collaboration translates into an open culture and a top-five position in collaborating with advanced industries. Fundamental knowledge enables us to design solutions for the highly complex problems of today and tomorrow.

The Department of Mechanical Engineering department conducts world-class research aligned with the technological interests of the high-tech industry in the Netherlands, with a focus on the Brainport region. Our goal is to produce engineers who are both scientifically educated and application-driven by providing a balanced education and research program that combines fundamental and application aspects. We equip our graduates with practical and theoretical expertise, preparing them optimally for future challenges.

Job Description

• Are you keen to work on recyclable thermoplastic matrices for polymer composites?
• Are you fascinated by the link between micromechanical processes and the macroscopic deformation and failure response?
• Are you motivated to explore both experimental and numerical tools to tackle your research problem?

Then this PhD vacancy is an excellent fit for you!

Fiber-reinforced polymer composites are one of the key materials driving the ongoing energy transition.  Most high-performance composites are currently made of thermoset polymer matrix material, which are challenging to recycle. There is therefore a strong industrial and academic effort to enhance the lifetime (durability) of the composite materials and, where possible, to replace conventional thermoset polymer matrix material with recyclable thermoplastic polymers.

To predict and improve the lifetime of a composite part, researchers often make use of a multi-scale modelling approach. An essential ingredient of this standard bottom-up modelling strategy is a mesoscale model for the composite at the fiber-matrix level. Yet, data for the matrix often used in these simulations are based on bulk specimen tests and classic continuum models are not able to capture the degree of heterogeneity of the stress and strain field dictating macroscopic failure. This inhibits accurate lifetime predictions and the fast implementation of novel matrix systems such as recyclable thermoplastic polymers.

The aim of the project is to improve our understanding of the deformation and failure behavior of polymers and polymer composites at the mesoscale. The successful candidate will expand the state-of-the-art methods to estimate and tailor the durability of fiber-reinforced polymer composites by:

• Developing a novel numerical (finite element) model to predict amorphous plasticity at the mesoscale.
• Conducting original micromechanical tests on polymer matrices and composites to inform and challenge the numerical predictions.
• Comparing the behavior of different polymer matrices (e.g. thermoset versus thermoplastic, virgin versus recycled, …).

Job Requirements

We are looking for a self-motivated, enthusiastic candidate with a MSc in Mechanical Engineering (or equivalent) and a background in solid mechanics / mechanics of materials.

The ideal candidate would have the following experience, skills and interests:

• Programming and finite element simulations.
• Experimental characterization of the deformation and failure response of materials (preferably polymers and/or polymer-based composites).
• Excellent communication skills.
• Ability to take ownership of the research project.
• Interested in collaborating with academic and industrial partners.
• Motivated to develop teaching skills and coach students.
• Fluent in spoken and written English (C1 level).

Conditions of Employment

• A meaningful job in a dynamic and ambitious university, in an interdisciplinary setting and within an international network. You will work on a beautiful, green campus within walking distance of the central train station. In addition, we offer you: 
• Full-time employment for four years, with an intermediate assessment after nine months. You will spend a minimum of 10% of your four-year employment on teaching tasks, with a maximum of 15% per year of your employment. 
• Salary and benefits (such as a pension scheme, paid pregnancy and maternity leave, partially paid parental leave) in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, scale P (min. € 2,901 max. € 3,707).  
• A year-end bonus of 8.3% and annual vacation pay of 8%. 
• High-quality training programs and other support to grow into a self-aware, autonomous scientific researcher. At TU/e we challenge you to take charge of your own learning process. 
• An excellent technical infrastructure, on-campus children's day care and sports facilities.  
• An allowance for commuting, working from home and internet costs. 
• A Staff Immigration Team and a tax compensation scheme (the 30% facility) for international candidates. 

Information

Do you recognize yourself in this profile and would you like to know more? Please contact the hiring manager Dr. Frederik Van Loock, Assistant Professor, [email protected] or +31 40 247 8231.

Visit our website for more information about the application process or the conditions of employment. You can also contact HR Services, email [email protected].

Are you inspired and would like to know more about working at TU/e? Please visit our career page.

Application

We invite you to submit a complete application by using the apply button. The application should include a:

• Curriculum vitae (including a list of conference and/or journal publications, if applicable)
• Cover letter in which you describe your motivation and qualifications for the position and your motivation to conduct PhD research in general.
• Contact details of 2 (min.) to 3 (max.) references.

We look forward to receiving your application and will screen it as soon as possible. The vacancy will remain open until the position is filled.