PhD Position on Modeling of smart additive-manufacturing processes for high-performance concrete

Project Overview

The goal of this project is to create a system capable of autonomously selecting in real time the optimal concrete composition and process parameters to produce the ideal concrete paste for specific applications, so as to reduce material wastage and improve the environmental performance of concrete as a building material.

This is a joint project between the University of Twente and the University of Applied Sciences Saxion, combining expertise from fundamental science, granular material modeling, software development, calibration, creative design, and concrete printing. You will work closely together with a Postdoc, who will be responsible for developing the digital twin environment, while you will focus on developing the physical twins of the mixing and printing processes. Together, you will work on creating a comprehensive virtual twin for these processes. Supporting this position is an academic team consisting of two PhD supervisors as well as additional academic staff members with expertise that covers modeling, programming and experimentation.

Requirements:

• You have a master's degree.
• Lab experience, e.g. in experimental design, calibration, and validation.
• Proficiency in using sensors and conducting precise measurements.
• Strong background in data acquisition and analysis.
• Proficiency in coding, particularly in Python.
• Excellent analytical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
• Strong communication skills for effective collaboration and reporting.
• Ability to work well in a team environment.
• Concrete technology and material science.
• Mixing processes and 3D printing techniques.
• Innovation in construction and manufacturing.

Salary Benefits:

• A full-time 4-year PhD position;
• Excellent mentorship and a stimulating international research environment;
• A training program as part of the Twente Graduate School where you and your supervisors will determine a plan for a suitable education and supervision;
• A gross monthly salary ranging from € 2.770,- (first year) to € 3.539,- (fourth year)
• A holiday allowance of 8% of the gross annual salary and a year-end bonus of 8.3%;
• The flexibility to work (partially) from home;
• Minimum of 29 holidays per year in case of fulltime employment;
• Free access to sports facilities on campus;
• We encourage a high degree of responsibility and independence, while collaborating with close colleagues, researchers and other staff.
• A stimulating and supportive research environment.
• Access to state-of-the-art laboratory facilities and equipment.
• Collaboration with a multidisciplinary team of experts across two academic institutions
• Opportunities for professional development and training.

40 hours per week

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