PhD position in Micro-mechanics of dynamic friction in a single-grain contact
Enschede, Overijssel, Netherlands
€ 60.000 - 80.000
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PhD position in Micro-mechanics of dynamic friction in a single-grain contact Looking for a job that matters? Join the university of technology that puts people first – and shape new opportunities both for yourself and for ou...
The challenge
Under highly accelerated slip, several physical phenomena contribute to the dynamic friction behavior of mechanical systems. Understanding friction in grain (micro)-scale contacts is relevant to several industrial and geo-mechanical systems. For example, loss of friction and slip causes errors in highly accurate positioning stages in lithography. Earthquakes also occur due to sudden slip when the frictional strength of the crushed rock granules in geological faults is overcome.
We plan to study the friction phenomena in a single-grain (asperity) contact by performing experiments to accurately model friction during high-acceleration sliding. Dynamic friction in single-grain (sphere-on-flat) contact in a fluid environment is affected by coupled phenomena such as frictional heating, fluid pressurization, etc. By instrumental analysis of single-grain experiments, we can formulate a physical basis for these friction processes and derive experimentally validated single-grain friction laws for highly dynamic slip. Our aim is:
To design and perform sliding experiments to investigate the micro-mechanics of dynamic frictional phenomena and develop friction laws for single-grain contact.
The PhD candidate will plan and implement the research towards the project objectives by:
participating in the design and development of a setup for highly dynamic sliding experiments.
performing in-(/ex-)situ thermographic and spectroscopic studies to inspect and quantify variations in frictional forces and phenomena.
developing experimentally validated, grain-scale friction models.
working with an interdisciplinary team in partnering departments and universities to efficiently calibrate and implement friction models to build larger scale Multiphysics solvers.
You will actively participate during the progress meetings and discussions of our research chair and project partners. We encourage our researchers to present and publish their results at international conferences and in reputed journals.
Your profile MSc (masters) degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent, preferably with a background in tribology.
Experience in experimental design and techniques is an advantage!
You are passionate to learn and to improve.
You thrive in a collaborative environment.
You are proficient in English language and interpersonal skills.
Our offer A full-time 4-year PhD position.
Excellent working conditions in a very exciting and creative environment within a green and lively campus.
A professional and personal development program within Graduate School Twente, culminating in professional scientific development and leading to acquiring a PhD degree.
You will receive a gross monthly salary ranging from € 2.770,- (first year) to € 3.539,- (fourth year).
There are attractive benefits including a holiday allowance of 8% of the gross annual salary and an end-of-year bonus of 8.3%.
Minimum of 29 holiday days per year in case of full-time employment.
A vibrant ecosystem with encouraging colleagues and mentorship, where internationalization with equal opportunity is an important aspect of the strategic agenda.
Information and application If interested, please submit your application before 13th of May, 2024 using the “ Apply now ” button.
Applications should include the following documents:
A motivation letter describing why you apply for this position, with a description of your research interests (no more than 1 A4).
Contact information of 2 references
Academic transcripts of courses from your Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees.
IELTS (above 6.5) or TOEFL-iBT (above 90) test results, if your master’s program was not in English.
Short-listed candidates will be invited for an (online) interview and a presentation which will probably take place from mid-May 2024 .
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 institutesMesa+ Institute, TechMed Center and Digital Society Institute.
Job details Title
PhD position in Micro-mechanics of dynamic friction in a single-grain contact
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