PhD positions in Structural Health Monitoring of Welded Thermoplastic Composite Assemblies
Develop digital twin-based structural health monitoring technologies for advanced thermoplastic composite aircraft structures.
Best for:Engineers with a background in composites, fatigue testing, or sensor integration looking to specialize in digital twins for aerospace.
Overview
The University of Twente is offering two PhD positions focused on advancing structural health monitoring (SHM) for welded thermoplastic composite aircraft components. These projects aim to overcome inspection challenges in complex aerostructures by developing digital twin models that integrate physical data with predictive simulations. One position focuses on the experimental characterization and constitutive modeling of welded joints, while the other centers on sensor integration and physics-informed signal processing. Successful candidates will contribute to creating lighter, safer, and more sustainable aviation technologies within a collaborative, multidisciplinary research environment.
What you'll do
- Conduct experimental characterization of static and fatigue performance in welded thermoplastic composite structures.
- Develop and validate constitutive models for welded interfaces using commercial finite element software.
- Implement sensor integration methods using piezo-electric or fiber optic technologies.
- Develop physics-informed signal processing methods to estimate structural state under fatigue loading.
- Collaborate with team members to integrate experimental data into digital twin frameworks.
- Participate in the Twente Graduate School training program and contribute to the research community.
Requirements
Degree required: Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or equivalent.
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; TOEFL > 90 or IELTS > 6.5
Instruction: English
- Proficiency in English (TOEFL > 90 or IELTS > 6.5).
- Strong reporting and communication skills.
- Experience with finite element methods and scripting languages like Python or Matlab.
- Experimental skills in mechanical characterization of fiber-reinforced composites or polymers.
- Theoretical knowledge of composite failure modeling or dynamic signal processing.
- Must hold a Master's degree in a relevant engineering discipline.
- Must be able to pass a knowledge security screening.
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-10-15
Submit your application via the official portal using the 'Apply now' button. Ensure your application includes a CV with references, a one-page cover letter specifying your preferred position, a three-minute introductory video, and academic transcripts.
- CV
- Cover letter
- Three-minute video
- Bachelor transcripts
- Master transcripts
Contact
Wouter Grouve· Dr. Ir.
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