Early-Stage Researcher
(PhD student position)

Objectives

The advent of new manufacturing capabilities for manufacturing LFRP composites has introduced the possibility of producing highly efficient fibre-reinforced thermoplastics (FRTPs).

Due to their inherent characteristics, thermoplastic matrices can overcome the brittle character and difficult recyclability of thermoset matrices. These aspects are of special interest in industrial applications since they encompass higher strain-to-failure, higher fracture toughness and damage tolerance and the ability to reshape and reuse/recycle.

The objective of this project concerns the analysis of fracture in FRTPs across the scales, i.e., from the scale of the constituents (micro-scale level) to the scale of the laminate (meso-/macro-scale level). Specific aspects concerning the behaviour of different thermoplastic matrices, such as visco-elasto-plasticity and ductile fracture, and the interaction with the reinforcing fibres in terms of damage tolerance will be addressed at the micro-scale level.

These aspects will be taken into account in the formulation of the appropriate constitutive models for the homogenised orthotropic material at the ply level for meso-/macro-scale analyses.

Benefits

A full-time fixed-term contract is offered. Marie Curie ITNs provide competitive financial support to the ESR including: a competitive monthly living and mobility allowance, coverage of the expenses related to the participation of the ESR in research and training activities (contribution to research-related costs, meetings, conference attendance, training actions, etc.). The recruited researchers will have a regular contract with the same rights and obligations as any other staff member of the institution.

Eligibility criteria

Applicants must at the time of recruitment:

1. Be in the first four years (full-time equivalent) of their research careers. The four years start to count from the date when a researcher obtained the degree (e.g. Master’s degree) which would formally entitle him/her to embark on a doctorate.
2. Candidates could be of any nationality but have not resided in the host country for more than 12 months in the last 3 years.
3. Have not been awarded a doctoral degree.

Selection process

Applicants are evaluated by a selection committee on the basis of past academic performance (grades) and background, scientific relevance and aptitude to research, and any other additional pertinent data submitted in the application (such as scientific publications, if any).

The candidates that pass the initial assessment of the applications will be invited for an interview with the selection committee, either in person at the campus, or via standard internet videoconference. Equal opportunities are ensured to all candidates throughout the evaluation process.

EURAXESS offer ID: 503094