PhD Candidate in AI-Driven Smart Material Characterisation
Develop next-generation intelligent offshore structures combining artificial intelligence and smart materials.
Best for:Best for master's graduates in mechanical engineering or computer science with a strong background in computational modelling and machine learning.
Overview
The Department of Structural Engineering at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology invites applications for a three-year PhD position focusing on AI-driven smart material characterisation and modelling. As part of the AIMOS project, the successful candidate will investigate the mechanical behaviour and computational modelling of smart materials for adaptive marine infrastructure. The work integrates experimental investigations, physics-informed modelling, and artificial intelligence methods. Candidates are expected to complete coursework, conduct independent research, publish academic papers, and collaborate closely with an interdisciplinary research team.
What you'll do
- Complete a minimum of 30 ECTS in relevant technical PhD-level courses.
- Conduct high-quality research on experimental characterisation and computational modelling of smart materials.
- Develop predictive material models combining physics-informed approaches and artificial intelligence.
- Publish research findings in peer-reviewed academic journals and present at scientific conferences.
- Collaborate with other researchers within the AIMOS project focusing on fluid-structure interaction and agentic AI.
- Participate actively in the SIMLab research group activities and departmental events.
Requirements
Degree required: Master's degree in mechanical engineering, computer science, or equivalent
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; IELTS 6.5 minimum (no section below 5.5) or TOEFL 92 minimum (writing 22) or equivalent Cambridge certificate
Instruction: English
- Strong academic background with a grade equivalent to B or better on NTNU's grading scale
- Proficiency in programming languages such as Python
- Eligibility for admission to the faculty's doctoral programme in Engineering
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills for complex engineering data
- Must meet admission requirements for the faculty's doctoral program
- Must be physically present and available to the institution on a daily basis
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-11-20
Submit your application electronically via the Jobbnorge portal including all required academic transcripts, CV, thesis draft, project outline, and motivation letter.
- CV
- BSc + MSc transcripts
- Master's thesis
- Project outline
- Cover letter
- 3 reference letters
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