phd position Dynamic Damage H2020 Marie Slodowska Curie ITN/ETN program

we are offering a phd position in Metz, LEM3 laboratory.

The position subject  concerns damage in dynamic conditions.

The goal is to work on dynamic damage for ductile materials. Several key points need to be discussed in the phd : (1) in experiments, voids have shapes which are not spherical or spheroidals. We aim to propose a solution to relax the constraint of spheroidal voids by considering cylindrical voids which can be viewed as penny shape inclusions. A model will be developed and comparisons with finite element calculations will be carried out. (2) Based on 2D simulations, various loading conditions will be investigated. We will investigate the case of shear loading in which the void-shape changes upon deformation and the semi axes of the void are rotating. An important challenge consists in modeling both aspects under low triaxiality loading and high strain rates. (3) in case of spherical voids under axisymmetric loading but with various Lode parameters, it is of interest to understand how local acceleration in the matrix influences the macroscopic stress. This aspect is fundamental. Based on precise description of the acceleration field in the matrix, we will explain how the void surface is strongly influenced by the dynamic loading. For that purposes, dedicated representative volume element containing initially a spherical void under axisymmetric loading are simulated under constant homogeneous stress rate loading.

The candidate will work at the UL (in the LEM3 laboratory, Metz, France) with Professors C. Czarnota, S. Mercier and A. Molinari.

We are looking for highly motivated candidates who want to pursue a scientific career in mechanical engineering (academic or industrial). An ideal candidate would have a background in mechanical or civil engineering or physics or mathematics and a strong interest in collaborating with a team working attitude in an interdisciplinary project. Good communication in English is required. Experiences with abaqus, fortran and mathematical skills are highly desired.

To apply for the proposed thesis in France, and in order to meet the specific requirements of the Marie Skłodowska-Curie funded PhDs, you must not have resided or carried out your main activity (work, studies, etc.) in France for more than 12 months in the last 3 years. Candidates must have a MSc degree or obtain a MSc degree by August 2016.

The details of the position is provided in the pdf file.

hope to welcome you soon in our team.

best regards

sebastien mercier