PhD student position in Concrete Structures

Information about the research
We are looking for a Ph.D. student who will study the implementation of advance Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) systems based on Distributed Fiber Optic sensors (DOFS) in both small- and large-scale elements. The research group has wide experience in the use of such systems in several types of structural elements, however the project aims to widen the scope to shotcrete tunnel linings, which are widely used nowadays. The underlying purpose of the project is to establish trustworthy links between the SHM system measurements and performance indicators that can be used for the assessment of the structural capacity of such elements. In a second stage such information blended with artificial data coming from FEM models thoroughly calibrated by the SHM data is going to be used to generate an artificial training database for Machine/Deep Learning models. Such models should be capable to predict a time-based structural performance and combined with other analytical deterioration models predict the service life of the structure, based on SHM data inputs.

Thereby, the project will contribute to significant economic and environmental savings for society, preserving also large cultural values, as we with improved knowledge can repair and replace existing structures only when necessary, still guaranteeing the required structural safety. In addition to that the project will contribute to improved designs as more and detailed knowledge of the structural performance will be obtained from such systems that can be used in the design phase.

The research is done in the research group Concrete Structures, which is part of the Division of Structural Engineering at the Department of Architecture and Civil Engineering. The research group is internationally well-known for its expertise in assessment of existing reinforced concrete structures. An important research focus now are the digitalisation of the construction sector and Structural Health Monitoring.

Major responsibilities
The major responsibility of the PhD candidate will be to carry out the PhD project and to conduct research in concrete structures. You will have the opportunity to influence the details of the research towards the needs of the project, with the possibility to combine SHM with numerical modelling and Machine Learning.

As a doctoral student, you will participate in doctoral courses and be involved in teaching activities. You will develop your skills in communicating scientific results, both to the public and industry and through scientific publications to the research community.

As a Ph.D. student you are employed by Chalmers and will receive a salary according to current salary agreements. The position is limited to maximum 5 years. A maximum of 20% of your time will be required for carrying out departmental duties, mainly teaching of undergraduate courses. The remaining time will be spent on your own courses and research, and you are expected to obtain a Ph.D. degree within 5 years (nominal time without department duties is 4 years).

Contract terms
Full-time temporary employment.

Qualifications
The successful applicant has a good knowledge of concrete structures. Knowledge of nonlinear finite element analysis and an interest in SHM and advanced statistical methods, such as Machine/Deep Learning are beneficial. Furthermore, sound knowledge of Python or Matlab is a requirement. A suitable background is a Master of Science (Swedish: civilingenjör) in civil engineering with good knowledge of structures, or an equivalent degree.  You will be a part of a research environment with several other researchers and Ph.D. students. You are expected to work both independently and in collaboration with senior researchers in the project. You must have an ability to plan and organize your own work and be able to communicate your scientific results in English.

We offer
Chalmers offers a cultivating and inspiring working environment in the coastal city of Gothenburg. 
Read more about working at Chalmers and our benefits for employees.

Chalmers aims to actively improve our gender balance. We work broadly with equality projects, for example the GENIE Initiative on gender equality for excellence. Equality and diversity are substantial foundations in all activities at Chalmers.

Application procedure
Learn more and apply here: https://www.chalmers.se/en/about-chalmers/Working-at-Chalmers/Vacancies/Pages/default.aspx?rmpage=job&rmjob=9725


Application deadline: 15 September, 2021