PhD in Reconfigurable Elastic Metamaterials
Explore wave propagation control in adaptive metamaterials through theory, simulation, and experiment at Politecnico di Torino.
Best for:Best for candidates with a strong background in physics, mechanical engineering, or materials science, interested in nonlinear dynamics, metamaterials, and experimental validation.
Overview
This PhD position at Politecnico di Torino focuses on investigating wave propagation in reconfigurable elastic metamaterials, whose dynamic response can be altered by external stimuli, deformation, or intrinsic nonlinearities. The research aims to understand how reconfigurability and nonlinear effects can manipulate dispersion, localization, transmission, and energy transport. Key topics include tunable band gaps, topological states, reconfigurable waveguides, and nonlinear dynamics. The project combines analytical modeling, numerical simulations, and experimental validation, including metamaterial fabrication and vibration testing. The goal is to establish design principles for adaptive metamaterials with applications in wave routing, vibration control, and signal processing.
What you'll do
- Develop analytical and reduced-order models to study wave propagation in reconfigurable metamaterials.
- Perform numerical simulations using finite-element and time-domain methods to analyze metamaterial behavior.
- Design and fabricate polymeric metamaterial specimens for experimental validation.
- Conduct piezoelectric excitation and full-field vibration measurements to characterize metamaterial properties.
- Investigate transitions between wave-propagation regimes and their robustness under damping, disorder, and finite-amplitude excitation.
- Optimize metamaterial architectures for specific applications in wave routing, vibration control, or signal processing.
- Publish findings in peer-reviewed journals and present results at international conferences.
Requirements
Degree required: Master's degree or equivalent in Physics, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Engineering, or a related field
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; Good proficiency (equivalent to IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL 90)
Instruction: English
- Strong background in classical mechanics, acoustics, or materials science
- Experience with analytical modeling and numerical simulations (e.g., finite-element methods)
- Hands-on laboratory skills, including metamaterial fabrication and experimental testing
- Proficiency in programming (e.g., Python, MATLAB) for simulations and data analysis
- Familiarity with nonlinear dynamics and wave propagation theory
- 1–4 years of research experience
- No nationality restrictions mentioned
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-11-16 (Europe/Rome)
Applicants must submit their application via email to federico.bosia@polito.it. The email subject should include the project title. Ensure your application includes a CV, a motivation letter, academic transcripts, and any relevant research publications or project work. The application deadline is strictly 16 November 2026 at 12:00 (Rome time).
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Motivation letter
- Academic transcripts (BSc and MSc)
- Research publications or project work (if applicable)
Contact
Federico Bosia· PhD Supervisor
+390110907324
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