PhD student positions in Infrastucture Geotechnics

Information about the project
The Geotechnics Research Group (GRG) at ACE is lead by Prof. Minna Karstunen, and consists currently of 10 full-time researchers, supported by two research engineers. The main research focus is geotechnical modelling and its applications in engineering practice, integrating advanced soil testing with model development, implementation and application. Examples of the latter are analyses of slope stability, construction of infrastructure such as embankments, excavations and tunnels, and foundation engineering. The research has strong links with major infrastructure projects in Scandinavia, such as the West Link project in Gothenburg. In addition, the group conducts fundamental research that underpins the more applied research, using physics-based approaches. The group's ambition is to become an internationally leading group in Geotechnical Engineering, with focus on natural geomaterials.

The new GEO lab at ACE (2020) has unique climate-controlled laboratory facilities for soft soil testing and in-house prototype development, as well as computational facilities incorporating the latest developments for computational work. The research operations are complemented by advanced testing for industry, linked to the challenges of major infrastructure projects, such as West Link project and High Speed rail. The laboratory development is supported by well-staffed and equipped mechanical workshop.

Major responsibilities
The applicant is expected to contribute to our externally funded research projects in infrastructure geotechnics, related to coupled processes in porous media, encountered in geo-structures. These include application of deep mixing under road and railway embankments and bottom support of excavations, natural and man-made slopes etc. where the coupling of mechanical, hydraulic and thermal response is important. The applicant is also expected to engage with industry, to create innovative solutions for major stakeholders. The position(s) is a fixed-term appointment fully funded by external research projects.

Position summary
Full-time temporary employment. The position is limited to a maximum of five years.

Qualifications
- Undergraduate degree in Civil Engineering or a related topic, with strong emphasis on Engineering Mechanics (Applied Mechanics and Materials). Ideally with specialization in Geotechnical Engineering.
- Fluency in English, and willingness to learn Swedish, as necessary for teaching at undergraduate and Master's level.
- Genuine interest in using the state-of the art in research for solving geotechnical problems for relevant stake holders (public bodies, industry).
- Ability and genuine interest to engage with international research, and ability to work increasingly independently
- Expertise in use of advanced experimental and/or advanced computational techniques required to study coupled processes in geomaterials, ideally linked to infrastructure geotechnics.
- Desire to engage with in geotechnical engineering education at undergraduate and/or post-graduate level.

To qualify as a PhD student, you must have a master's level degree corresponding to at least 240 higher education credits in a relevant field.

The position requires sound verbal and written communication skills in Swedish and English. If Swedish is not your native language, you should be able to teach in Swedish after two years. Chalmers offers Swedish courses.

Chalmers continuously strives to be an attractive employer. Equality and diversity are substantial foundations in all activities at Chalmers.

Our offer to you
Chalmers offers a cultivating and inspiring working environment in the dynamic city of Gothenburg. 
Read more about working at Chalmers and our benefits for employees.

Application deadline: 20th May, 2020

APPLY HERE

For questions, please contact:
Minna Karstunen minna.karstunen@chalmers.se, +46 31 772 2144
Jelke Dijkstra, jelke.dijkstra@chalmers.se, +46 31 772 21 20

*** Chalmers declines to consider all offers of further announcement publishing or other types of support for the recruiting process in connection with this position. *** 
   



Chalmers University of Technology conducts research and education in engineering sciences, architecture, technology-related mathematical sciences, natural and nautical sciences, working in close collaboration with industry and society. The strategy for scientific excellence focuses on our six Areas of Advance; Energy, Health Engineering, Information and Communication Technology, Materials Science, Production and Transport. The aim is to make an active contribution to a sustainable future using the basic sciences as a foundation and innovation and entrepreneurship as the central driving forces. Chalmers has around 11,000 students and 3,000 employees. New knowledge and improved technology have characterised Chalmers since its foundation in 1829, completely in accordance with the will of William Chalmers and his motto: Avancez!