PhD position in "Fiber path and topology optimization of 3D printed composites"

(ref. BAP-2023-45)

Laatst aangepast : 25/01/2023

A funded PhD position on design of 3D printed fiber-reinforced composites is open for applications. The student will be hosted by the KU Leuven – Bruges Campus, a modern and vibrant institution located in a historical city. The researcher will be advised by the principal investigator Prof. Dr. Gokhan Serhat (https://www.kuleuven.be/wieiswie/en/person/00152685), and he/she will be a part of two strong groups conducting cutting-edge research: Noise and Vibration Research Group (https://www.mech.kuleuven.be/en/mod) and M-Group (https://iiw.kuleuven.be/onderzoek/m-group).

Project

The use of fiber-reinforced composites has been rapidly increasing over the last decades. The high stiffness-to-weight ratio and customizable stiffness properties of these materials make them ideal for lightweight applications in the aerospace,automotive, and construction sectors. The properties of composites can be further tailored to maximize their structural performance for specific uses. The stiffness directionality, topology, and thickness are commonly addressed inthis aspect. These design variables need to be simultaneously considered toexploit the full potential of the structure. However, such an approach may complicate the design process due to the possible interdependency of the variables. In addition, synchronous optimization can significantly increase the computational cost when the number of variables is large. This project will address this problem by developing an efficient and robust computational design framework for concurrent fiber path, topology, and thickness optimization of fiber-reinforced composites. To this end, an implicit modeling approach relying on intermediate variables will be used to represent the stiffness properties. The proposed techniques will particularly focus on contemporary composites manufactured by continuous fiber 3D printing.

Profile

We are looking for a motivated and ambitious student who wants to pursue a PhD degree in concurrent fiber path and topology optimization of 3D printed composites. The candidate should have a professional attitude, the capability of working independently, cooperative manners, and a persistent mindset. Along with the research duties, the student will also be involved in teaching assignments.

Minimum technical qualifications:

• A Master of Science degree in Mechanical, Aerospace, or Civil Engineering (or a related field)
• Fundamental knowledge in continuum solid mechanics
• Experience with finite element analysis 
• Good MATLAB or Python programming skills
• Proficiency in verbal and written English

Preferred technical qualifications:

• Knowledge in the design and production of fiber-reinforced composites

• Familiarity with preparing scientific publications

• Experience with topology optimization
• Experience with 3D printing

Offer

• The opportunity to pursue a PhD degree in the Faculty of Engineering Technology, a trajectory that typically takes 4 years, in a young and dynamic research group. Initially, a 1-year contract is provided as probation, but funding is available for 4 years.
• A competitive remuneration package in line with the industry standards of Belgium, a country with a high quality of life and an excellent health system.
• A position as a member of a multi-disciplinary team within a top-ranking university.
• An energetic work environment in the historical city of Bruges, also known as the Venice of the North, in the heart of Europe. Bruges is located at 1-hour distance from Brussels by train, with a direct connection to the Brussels International Airport.

Interested?

For more information, please contact Prof. Dr. Gokhan Serhat, email: [email protected]

KU Leuven seeks to foster an environment where all talents can flourish, regardless of gender, age, cultural background, nationality or impairments. If you have any questions relating to accessibility or support, please contact us at [email protected].