Thermoplastic composites are the lightweight materials of the future, supporting the automotive and aerospace needs to reduce fuel consumption and extend vehicle range. Optimal usage of these materials requires fast and reliable integration techniques to manufacture bonded parts. ENLIGHTEN is large multidisciplanary research program funded by the Dutch Research Council (NWO) on enabling integrated lightweight structures with thermoplastic composites involving several academic and industrial partners.

This postdoc project is part of a workpackage within ENLIGHTEN on predicting the performance of these materials with advanced computational tools. Specifically, the project aims to develop a macroscale model for debonding in stiffened panels. A new higher order finite element formulation will be developed to allow for efficiently modeling large scale debonding with a cohesive zone model. The project is related to other ongoing efforts in ENLIGHTEN. Firstly, mesoscale model developments taking into account processing conditions will provide inputs for the macroscale model. Secondly, planned experiments on stiffened panels will provide the opportunity to validate the model. After validation, the model can be put to use to make predictions for performance of bonded parts under conditions that cannot be achieved in the lab and to explore possibilities for improving the performance of thermoplastic parts through changes in production process and design.        

We seek an enthusiastic researcher for doing cutting edge computational mechanics research in a multidisciplinary context. A successful candidate should have:

• A PhD degree in a relevant field (Civil Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering) with focus on computational mechanics
• Proven ability to formulate, implement and test original numerical methods for simulation of solid materials or structures
• Independence, eagerness to learn and an openness to communicate and collaborate with other researchers
• Excellent command of English, both verbally and in writing
• Experience with fiber reinforced composite materials and/or cohesive zone modeling is an advantage

Fixed-term contract: 2 years.

Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities. The TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, discounts on health insurance, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged.

For international applicants, TU Delft has the Coming to Delft Service. This service provides information for new international employees to help you prepare the relocation and to settle in the Netherlands. The Coming to Delft Service offers a Dual Career Programme for partners and they organise events to expand your (social) network.

Delft University of Technology

Delft University of Technology is built on strong foundations. As creators of the world-famous Dutch waterworks and pioneers in biotech, TU Delft is a top international university combining science, engineering and design. It delivers world class results in education, research and innovation to address challenges in the areas of energy, climate, mobility, health and digital society. For generations, our engineers have proven to be entrepreneurial problem-solvers, both in business and in a social context.

At TU Delft we embrace diversity as one of our core values and we actively engage to be a university where you feel at home and can flourish. We value different perspectives and qualities. We believe this makes our work more innovative, the TU Delft community more vibrant and the world more just. Together, we imagine, invent and create solutions using technology to have a positive impact on a global scale. That is why we invite you to apply. Your application will receive fair consideration.

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Faculty Civil Engineering and Geosciences

The Faculty of Civil Engineering & Geosciences (CEG) is committed to outstanding international research and education in the field of civil engineering, applied earth sciences, traffic and transport, water technology, and delta technology. Our research feeds into our educational programmes and covers societal challenges such as climate change, energy transition, resource availability, urbanisation and clean water. Our research projects are conducted in close cooperation with a wide range of research institutions. CEG is convinced of the importance of open science and supports its scientists in integrating open science in their research practice. The Faculty of CEG comprises 28 research groups in the following seven departments: Materials Mechanics Management & Design, Engineering Structures, Geoscience and Engineering, Geoscience and Remote Sensing, Transport & Planning, Hydraulic Engineering and Water Management.

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For more information about this vacancy, please contact Frans van der Meer, f.p.vandermeer@tudelft.nl