Project proposal

Experimental and numerical research on concrete subjected to fast transient loads

The Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) in Trondheim represents academic eminence in technology and the natural sciences as well as in other academic disciplines ranging from the social sciences, the arts, medicine, teacher education, architecture to fine art. Cross-disciplinary cooperation results in innovative breakthroughs and creative solutions with far-reaching social and economic impact.

We are looking for a Postdoc/Experienced Researcher candidate interested in applying for an MSCA Individual Fellowship at the Department of Structural Engineering.  The topic is experimental and numerical research on concrete subjected to fast transient loads.

The postdoctoral fellow/experienced researcher will participate in research related to blast and impact loading against concrete structures. Concrete is a heterogeneous conglomerate which is challenging to model accurately. To account for this it is possible to make a mesoscale model which describes the two phases – the aggregates and the cement paste – of the concrete separately. The grading curve and the concrete recipe together with mechanical testing in the lab allows us to establish a numerical framework for these mesoscale models. These models will in turn be used to make predictions about concrete behaviour at a structural level. Component tests will then be used for validation of the numerical models.

A combined experimental and numerical approach is used in this project. The position offers the opportunity for scientific and professional growth through collaborative research in an internationally recognized research group, SIMLab. The Structural Impact Laboratory, SIMLab, offers a well-equipped lab and highly competent staff and has national and international research partners across many areas.

The position reports to Professor Tore Børvik and collaborates with researcher Martin Kristoffersen.

Main duties and responsibilities

• Maintain an overview of the current literature on the topic
• Conduct and analyse material and component tests of concrete parts
• Establishing a finite element framework for mesoscale modelling
• Validation of numerical models
• Publication

Qualification requirements

• Experience with mechanical testing of materials and with relevant measurement techniques such as 3D-DIC and X-ray Micro Computer Tomography
• Knowledge in material mechanics and mathematical modelling of materials
• Knowledge in non-linear finite element methods and software packages like Abaqus or LS-DYNA
• Knowledge in transient dynamics such as impact and blast loading
• Programming skills (e.g. Python)
• Excellent written and oral English and/or Norwegian language skills

Personal characteristics

• Able to work in a team and independently
• Can think and make decisions for himself/herself
• Strong analytic capabilities

In the evaluation of which candidate is best qualified, selection will be conducted by the supervisor. Emphasis will be placed upon the academic in accordance with the supervisor and the project proposal.

We offer

• A designated supervisor with whom to prepare an application for the MSCA-IF call
• A two-day symposium with showcasing of expertise and best practices on how to apply to MSCA-IF
• A follow-up day with the supervisor and possible individual guidance by experts on MSCA-IF
• Administrative support up to the call deadline
• Travel and accommodation from the 13-15th of May 2020 will be covered by NTNU

Conditions

Appointment as post doc up to a maximum of 24 months at NTNU rests on the prerequisite of an approved application to the MSCA-IF call with deadline 9 September 2020. Feedback on said applications is expected early 2021.

General information

Working at NTNU

A good work environment is characterized by diversity. We encourage qualified candidates to apply, regardless of their gender, functional capacity or cultural background. Under the Freedom of Information Act (Offentleglova), information about the applicant may be made public even if the applicant has requested not to have their name entered on the list of applicants.

Questions about the call can be directed to: msca@horizon.ntnu.no or andreas.mollerlokken@ntnu.no

Questions about the position can be directed either to researcher Martin Kristoffersen (martin.kristoffersen@ntnu.no) or to Professor Tore Børvik (tore.borvik@ntnu.no).

About the application:

Please submit your application electronically via jobbnorge.no with your CV, cover letter, diplomas and certificates that highlight the alignment of your application. In addition, the applicant myst describe a research project that will strengthen and complement the presented research (max 2 pages).

Please refer to the application number IV/03 when applying.

Publications and other academic works that the applicant would like to be considered in the evaluation must accompany the application. Joint works will be considered. If it is difficult to identify the individual applicant's contribution to joint works, the applicant must include a brief description of his or her contribution.

Application deadline: 09.03.2020

NTNU - knowledge for a better world

The Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) creates knowledge for a better world and solutions that can change everyday life.

Department of Structural Engineering

We teach mechanical engineering, engineering and ICT, and civil and environmental engineering. The Department conducts internationally leading research and participates in several large national research projects. The Department of Structural Engineering is one of eight departments in the Faculty of Engineering

Deadline 9th March 2020
Employer NTNU - Norwegian University of Science and Technology
Municipality Trondheim
Scope Fulltime
Duration Project
Place of service NTNU Trondheim