The aim of the proposal is to improve our fundamental understanding of fine-grained granular matter, such as quick clay, by experimentally studying the evolution of the structure of these materials on the micro scale for several controlled mechanical loading conditions. The applicant is also expected to contribute to the education at undergraduate or MSc level (up to 20 per cent of working hours).
Description
Information about the research/the project/the division
The current vacancy is within the division of GeoEngineering, which consists of three overlapping research groups: Geomechanics & Geotechnical Engineering, Hydrogeology & Rock Engineering, and Risk Management of Land & Water Resources. The group has unique laboratory facilities to study soft geomaterials in climate-controlled conditions and computational facilities incorporating the latest developments for computational work. We are looking for a doctoral student in the Geomechanics & Geotechnical Engineering group under supervision of Associate Professor Jelke Dijkstra. In our research we study the complex material behaviour arising from the particulate nature of natural soils and the associated coupled processes. Our main focus is on fine grained natural materials, such as soft sensitive clays. On the experimental side, we probe the material behaviour across the scales from small scale (micrometre) to large scale (meters). Subsequently, this information is used to develop novel constitutive models that are implemented in in-house and commercial computational codes. These are used for advanced modelling of geotechnical problems on soft soils, such embankments, foundations, slopes, deep excavations and ground improvement and compared with field monitoring results.
The current position is an experimental position related to the development of novel element tests at small scale to enable advanced non-intrusive measurement techniques, such as micro-tomography, dielectric spectroscopy, small angle x-ray and neutron scattering. Part of the experiments will be performed in collaboration with Dr Stephen Hall at Lund University using the world-class facilities in the Department of Solid Mechanics and at MAX-lab.
We are looking for a highly motivated and talented individual with experience/interest in design and development of apparatuses for material testing in a collaborative project between Chalmers and Lund funded by Vetenskapsrådet (http://www.vr.se/inenglish).
Full-time temporary employment. The position is limited to a maximum of five years.
Qualifications
To to qualify as a PhD student, you must have a Master's level degree corresponding to at least 240 ECTS credits or a 4-year Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Applied Physics or related subject. Additional experience with building equipment and developing control software and/or electronics is an advantage. The applicants are expected to be proficient in English (both verbal and written communication) in order to work efficiently in an English speaking research environment.
For more information and how to apply:
www.chalmers.se/en/about-chalmers/vacancies/
Nr of positions available : 1
Research Fields
Technology
Career Stage
Early stage researcher or 0-4 yrs (Post graduate)
Research Profiles
First Stage Researcher (R1)