PhD Position FRP in the MSCA Doctoral Network ASSESS - at Warsaw University of Technology, Poland

PhD Vacancy for a Doctoral Candidate (DC7) in Self-sensing smart FRP composites using CNT-doped thermoplastic materials in the MSCA Doctoral Network ASSESS - at Warsaw University of Technology, Poland

Job description
The aim of this PhD is to develop of novel multifunctional CNT-doped thermoplastic fibres, veils and strips with bulk electrical conductivity and self-sensing capabilities for rapid SHM of smart composite structures. Such carbon based sensors can be easily integrated into CFRP composites with the application of commonly used out-of-autoclave manufacturing methods for FRPs (RTM, LRI). Self-sensing techniques will reduce unscheduled and scheduled inspection times and will allow a rapid quality assurance and enhanced manufacturing process control. The inclusion of CNT into the matrix has the potential of creating materials with multi-functional properties, e.g., a combination of electrical, thermal conductivity and improved mechanical performance in addition to self-sensing capabilities. Experimental tests will be carried out on monolithic and complex shaped CFRP composite parts. Verification is by deliverable reports and scientific publications. This PhD is part of the ASSESS project, you can read more about this here.

Research Fields:
Composite materials, structural health monitoring, polymer processing

Secondments:
TMBK, M. Towpik, months 10-16 (6 months): fabrication of smart FRPs with CNTs-doped thermoplastic fibres;

BARI, F. Ciampa, months 20-26 (6 months): mechanical testing for electric / mechanical characterisation.

Key Responsibilities:

• Conduct research as outlined in the project’s objectives under the supervision of Professor Anna Boczkowska.
• Engage in secondments as part of the project’s training activities.
• 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:

JMain Supervisor: Prof Anna Boczkowska (WUT)

Co-supervisor: Prof Francesco Ciampa (BARI)

Mentor: Dr Kamil Dydek (WUT)

Requirements
Eligibility Criteria

• A Master's degree (or equivalent) in materials engineering, polymer processing, aerospace engineering.
• 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 Poland 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.

Required Skills:

• Understanding the structure, properties, and processing of fibre reinforced polymers (FRPs), particularly carbon fibre reinforced polymers (CFRPs).
• Knowledge of the effects of CNTs on the mechanical, electrical, and thermal properties of composites.
• Experience in polymers and composite processing e.g. extrusion, melt-blow, infusion, OoA.
• Knowledge of SHM systems, including self-sensing techniques, for real-time monitoring of composite structures.
• Strong conceptual and analytical skills
• The ability to work both independently and as part of a team

Optional Skills:

• Experience in electrical conductivity and piezoresistive behavior testing of composites.
• Competence in processing experimental data from SHM for material characterization and performance evaluation.
• English Requirement: High level of proficiency in English (will be tested at interview).

Academic Host:
Warsaw University of Technology, Faculty of Materials Science and Engineering, Poland

The Warsaw University of Technology is not only the oldest and largest but also the best technical university in Poland; in the ranking of Polish universities, it has taken the first place in its category for nine years. At WUT, over 180 student research groups, organisations and associations are active, and the educational offer includes more than 30 fields of study (also with English as a medium of instruction). The Faculty of Materials Science and Engineering (FMSE) is the leading research and higher education institution in Poland. FMSE combines a strong interest in new materials and technologies with significant achievements in applied science.

Website: https://www.wim.pw.edu.pl/wim_en

Conditions of employment
Salary:

The successful candidate will receive a competitive and attractive academic remuneration package in accordance with MSCA regulations for doctoral candidates. The researcher will be employed under a contract that includes social security coverage and pension rights.

The financial package includes the following*:

• Monthly living allowance: €3,400/month, adjusted by applying the country correction coefficient for the country of recruitment (Poland). The coefficients are outlined in Table 1 of MSCA Work Programme 2023-24 version adopted on 6 December 2022 (European Commission Decision C(2022) 7550 (https://adaptmet.eu/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/FINAL-PUBLISHED_6Dec2022_-wp-2-msca-actions_horizon-2023-2024_en.pdf)
• Monthly mobility allowance: €600/month.
• Monthly family allowance (if applicable, depending on family situation): €660/month.
• The living allowance above represents the total EU contribution to the researcher’s salary costs. The estimated gross salary is approximately €2,474.00 per month, inclusive of both employee and employer tax contributions. The net salary will be calculated by deducting these contributions and any other applicable national taxes (e.g., income tax) from the gross amount.

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 Prof Anna Boczkowska, via anna.boczkowska@pw.edu.pl.

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 Prof Anna Boczkowska.

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