PhD Position in MSCA Doctoral Network ASSESS at TUD Dresden University of Technology, Germany

PhD Vacancy for a Doctoral Candidate (DC11) in Smart FRP spacecraft structures under cryogenic conditions in the MSCA Doctoral Network ASSESS - at TUD Dresden Uniersity of Technology, Germany

Job description
In the frame of DC 11 sensor networks based on the TEmSAL smart layer technology will be developed for space applications. Technological aspects of sensor integration into CFRPs with special emphasis on cryogenic conditions will be addressed. Therefore, a comprehensive multi-physics numerical FEM considering both the cryogenic environment and influences from the manufacturing process needs to be developed and validated. The DC will perform experimental validation on CFRP coupons involving fatigue loading and damage monitoring. Numerical simulations will also be used to generate a surrogate data for Machine Learning (ML) algorithm training tailored to analyse complex loading scenarios based on the sensor network information. Within two 6-months secondments the candidate will explore testing methods of integrated electronic components under simulated space conditions (TU Delft) and develop methods for damage detection and ML (Politecnico di Bari). This PhD is part of the ASSESS project, you can read more about this here.

Research Fields:

• Sensor integration, manufacturing of fibre reinforced composites
• Numerical modelling and calculation
• Materials Characterisation

Secondments:

TUD- Technische Universiteit Delft, Dr. Roger Groves (Month 10-15 for 6 Months)

BARI- Politecnico di Bari, Dr. Francesco Ciampa (Months 27–33 for 6 months)

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct research as outlined in the project’s objectives under the supervision of Prof. Niels Modler.
• Engage in secondments as part of the project’s training activities with TUD and BARI.
• Contribute to academic publications, project reports, and other dissemination activities.
• Participate in structured training programs and network-wide events organized by the consortium.
• Collaborate with international partners and other Doctoral Candidates within the network.

Principal Supervisor:

Prof. Niels Modler

Co-Supervisor : Dr.-Ing. Anja Winkler; Dr.-Ing. Andreas Hornig

Prof Pascal Nicolay (CUS)

Requirements
Eligibility Criteria

• A Master's degree (or equivalent).
• The candidate must fulfil the requirements of the doctoral regulations of the TUD Dresden University of Technology, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering. The submitted documents will be checked upon receipt.
• Not in possession of a doctoral degree at the date of the recruitment.
• Recruited applicants can be of any nationality and must undertake trans-national mobility (i.e., move from one country to another) when taking up the appointment. In particular, at the time of selection, the recruited applicant for this position must not have resided or carried out their main activity (work, studies, etc.) in Germany for more than 12 months in the 3 years immediately prior to their recruitment. You will be asked to enclose evidence to prove this. Short stays, such as holidays, are not taken into account.- Please enclose evidence to prove this.
• The successful applicant (Doctoral Candidate) must be enrolled in the TU Dresden’s Grad School and PhD program.

Required Skills:

• Knowledge in mechanics and modelling of carbon fiber-reinforced composite materials
• Capable of performing numerical simulations using FE software (Abaqus, LS-Dyna ore equivalent)
• Familiar with concepts of RVE and surrogate modelling
• Knowledge in experimental testing methods
• Basic understanding of sensor and structural integration technologies (especially for piezoelectric sensors)
• Highly self-motivated
• Structured and independent way of working
• Strong conceptual and analytical skills
• The ability to work both independently and as part of a team

Optional Skills:

• Manufacturing of CFRP
• Material testing in cryogenic environment
• Familiar with tools for advanced data analytics
• German
• English Requirement: High level of proficiency in English (will be tested at interview)

Academic Host
TUD Dresden University of Technology, Faculty of Mechanical Science and Engineering, Germany: Institute of Lightweight Engineering and Polymer Technology.

TUD Dresden University of Technology (DRE) is one of the so called “Excellence Universities” and one of the nine leading Universities (TU9) in Germany. In this project, DRE is represented by the Institute of Lightweight Engineering and Polymer Technology, which consists of an interdisciplinary team of 250 employees. It has longstanding experience in the entire “material, design, simulation, assembly, prototype testing, cost” value chain. For the current research project, the specialised knowledge in the development of composite components with e.g., integrated piezo-ceramic modules as well as in applying a wide range of manufacturing and measurement techniques is available.

http://tu-dresden.de/mw/ilk

Conditions of employment
Salary: The successful candidate will receive a competitive and attractive academic remuneration package following the MSCA regulations for doctoral candidates (page 109 ff).

The exact salary will vary depending on the country of the host partner-Germany (Country correction coefficient – see page 140 - https://adaptmet.eu/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/FINAL-PUBLISHED_6Dec2022_-wp-2-msca-actions_horizon-2023-2024_en.pdf) and will be confirmed upon appointment. The salary includes a living allowance, a mobility allowance, and a family allowance (if the recruited doctoral candidate has or acquires family obligations during the duration of the fellowship).

Other Benefits:

The doctoral candidate will also benefit from comprehensive training within the ASSESS network, including participation in at least six specialized Training Events organized by the MSCA-ASSESS network. Additional opportunities include secondments to partner laboratories, a range of advanced training courses (including transferable skills development), and active engagement in workshops and international conferences, providing a well-rounded and enriching research experience. Expected Start Date: Q2 2025

Additional information
If you would like more information about this vacancy or the selection procedure, please contact Dr.Ing. Anja Winkler, via anja.winkler@tu-dresden.de.

Project Description:

The Horizon Europe MARIE SKŁODOWSKA-CURIE ACTION Doctoral Network (DN) ASSESS (Automated online monitoring of Smart compoSitE StructureS - Grant Agreement Number 101168031) offers 12 exciting PhD positions to develop next-generation smart composites for strategic European industries such as aviation, space, and wind energy.

Composite materials with embedded sensors and nanomaterials hold the potential for real-time structural health monitoring. However, industrial adoption is hindered by challenges in sensor integration, automated data analysis, standardization, and operator training. ASSESS bridges the gap between research and industry by advancing the design, manufacturing, and testing of Fibre Reinforced Polymer (FRP) composites.

As part of a multidisciplinary consortium of 9 beneficiaries and 13 Associated Partners, you will engage in pioneering research on:

• Smart composites and cutting-edge sensing technologies
• Advanced simulations and AI-driven data analysis
• Digital twins and Industry 4.0 innovations

Through collaborative projects, international secondments, and specialized training, you'll contribute to safer, lighter, and more efficient composite components, reducing CO₂ emissions, enhancing wind energy production, and supporting Europe's green transition.

Application procedure
Are you interested in this vacancy? Please apply no later than 28 February 2025 via the application button and upload the following documents:

• Detailed CV, including information on the candidate’s proficiency in English
• Motivational letter (1 page), describing why the position fits the applicant
• Contact information of 2 references
• Copy of Master’s degree diploma
• Copies of any other relevant certifications listed within CV

Selection Criteria: Candidates will be evaluated based on their academic background, research experience, and alignment with the project’s objectives. The selection process will be open, transparent, merit-based, impartial, and equitable.

Interview: Shortlisted candidates will be invited for a structured interview with predefined questions and a scoring system

You can address your application to Dr.Ing. Anja Winkler.

Please note:

• You can apply online. We will not process applications sent by email and/or post.
• Please do not contact us for unsolicited services.

40 hours per week

Mekelweg 5