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  2. 2 PhD positions in “Recycling Process Analysis of Thermoplastic Composites”

2 PhD positions in “Recycling Process Analysis of Thermoplastic Composites”

Are you passionate about composite materials’ technologies but at the same time concerned about sustainability and environmental impact? If so, the following position may be perfect for you!

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Key takeaways

  • Hours
    38 - 40 hr.
  • Salary indication
    Salary gross/monthly
    based on full-time
    € 2,872 - € 3,670
  • Deadline
    20 Oct 2024

As part of the European project FibReLoop, a Marie Sklodowska-Curie (MSCA) Doctoral Network, we have two PhD positions on modelling and characterization of recycled thermoplastic composite materials. The positions will be co-hosted by the University of Twente (the chairs of Production Technology and Computational Design of Structural Materials) and the ThermoPlastic Composites Research Center.

Background and Challenge

The properties of composite materials largely depend on the distribution of their constituents and their respective properties. Any recycling process will impact both of these, leading to additional microstructural variability. Only with detailed understanding, proper characterisation and accurate modelling we can hope for reliable predictions of the structure, properties and performance of the resulting recycled composite part.

This requires micro-mechanical models to be developed, firstly for the rheological behaviour of compression moulded recycled discontinuous composites, as well as experiments to characterise the behaviour of these materials during processing.

Job description

We are seeking two enthusiastic PhD candidates to join us for a full-time, fully funded, 4-year project working within the large European consortium “FibReLoop: Closing the fibre reinforced composites loop: recycling materials for recycled components”. One PhD project will be predominantly computational and the other experimental.

The FibReLoop Doctoral Network strives to promote the industrial implementation of circular economy strategies for composites. Fourteen doctoral candidates will be trained at various institutions throughout Europe to address the recycling of a composite part all the way to the design and production of new recycled components. The topics include the evaluation, improvement, and development of current or new recycling technologies; the experimental assessment of the behaviour of the recycled materials; the development of material models and design approaches for recycled composites and parts; and the implementation of these materials circular economic practices into real-life industrial cases. FibReLoop involves 18 European universities and companies. Hired researchers will receive training by world-leading experts in innovative technologies, supported by a strong network and extensive industry participation.

As part of their training, all researchers will participate in the dedicated training programme organised by FibReLoop (including technical, communication, career management and business skills) and in six-monthly project meetings. Also, they will have an industrial and an academic secondment of approximately three months each at one of the partner institutions. Further, the researchers will write scientific papers for publication in top-level journals in materials science/mechanics, present their research in project meetings, international conferences and outreach events, and work in close collaboration with their supervisors while being the driving force for their own PhD.

Your profile

You are a highly motivated researcher who is driven by curiosity and has:

  • a Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Engineering or equivalent,
  • for the computational project: experience with the finite element method and programming experience in programming or scripting languages (Fortran, C++, Python or Matlab),
  • for the experimental project: experimental and theoretical skills in rheology of polymers and fiber reinforced composites,
  • proficiency in English, both spoken and written (we require a TOEFL > 90 or IELTS > 6.5 score). The latter is not necessary for native speakers of English or whose MSc program was in English,
  • You are able to start the position no later than 1 March 2025.

Our offer

We offer a full-time 4-year PhD position with a qualifier in the first year; excellent mentorship in a stimulating research environment with excellent facilities; and a personal development program within the Twente Graduate School. It also includes:

  • Gross monthly salary of € 2.872 in the first year, increasing each year up to € 3.670 in the fourth year;
  • Excellent benefits including a holiday allowance of 8% of the gross annual salary, an end-of-year bonus of 8.3%, a solid pension scheme, and 29 vacation days in case of full-time employment;
  • A training program, where you and your supervisors will settle a plan for education and supervision;
  • A green campus with free access to sports facilities and an international scientific community;
  • A family-friendly institution that offers parental leave (both paid and unpaid).

Information and application

Please submit your application before 20 October, 2024 by using the “Apply now” button, and include:

We will invite shortlisted applicants for a written assessment, followed by interviews of the best performing candidates in the second half of November.

Additional information about these positions can be acquired from prof.dr.ir Remko Akkerman (r.akkerman@utwente.nl).

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About the organisation

The Faculty of Engineering Technology (ET) engages in education and research of Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering and Industrial Design Engineering. We enable society and industry to innovate and create value using efficient, solid and sustainable technology. We are part of a ‘people-first' university of technology, taking our place as an internationally leading center for smart production, processes and devices in five domains: Health Technology, Maintenance, Smart Regions, Smart Industry and Sustainable Resources. Our faculty is home to about 2,900 Bachelor's and Master's students, 550 employees and 150 PhD candidates. Our educational and research programmes are closely connected with UT research institutes Mesa+ Institute, TechMed Center and Digital Society Institute.

Want to know more

Akkerman, R. (Remko)

Akkerman, R. (Remko)
Full Professor

Akkerman, R. (Remko)
Full Professor

Do you have questions about this vacancy? Then you can contact Remko for all substantive questions about this position and the application procedure. For general questions about working for the UT, please refer to the chatbot.

How to apply

Step 1

Apply.
When you see a vacancy that appeals to you, you can apply online. We ask you to upload a CV and motivation letter and/or list of publications. You will receive a confirmation of receipt by e-mail.

Apply now

Step 2

Selection.
The selection committee will review your application and you will receive a response within 2 weeks after the vacancy has been closed.

Step 3

1st interview.
The 1st (online or in person) meeting serves as an introduction where we introduce ourselves to you and you to us. You may be asked to give a short presentation. This will be further explained in the invitation.

Step 4

2nd interview.
In the second interview, we will further discuss the job content, your skills and your talents.

Step 5

The offer.
If the conversations are positive, you will be made a suitable offer. If applicable, we will sign you up for screening.

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About The Faculty ET

Curious about what the Faculty of Engineering Technology (ET) stands for? Check out the ET website for more information.

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