nassarh's blog

In differential geometry, rigidity theory investigates whether a surface can deform by pure bending without stretching. The central problem is to find or disprove the existence of isometric deformations.

Classical examples in the "discrete" category include:

• The finite rigidity of convex polyhedra by Cauchy
• The infinitesimal rigidity of convex polyhedra by Dehn
• The existence of flexible (non-convex) polyhedra by Connelly

In the "smooth" category, we have:

I am seeking a PhD student to work on the design and modeling of morphing solids and shells. The position is fully funded and is available at the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at the University of Missouri – Columbia.

Applicants will have a BS or an MS or an Engineering degree in a relevant area (Mechanical or Civil Engineering, Physics or Applied Mathematics). Knowledge of Python, Matlab and of an FEA software (e.g., Ansys) is a plus.

I am seeking enthusiastic students and recent graduates to join my group at the University of Missouri - Columbia to work on the nonlinear structural mechanics of folded and 3D printed materials such as origami tessellations and lattices. Positions are available at the level of Graduate Research Assistants and Postdoctoral Fellows. Candidates with background in nonlinear finite element analysis are particularly encouraged to apply.

The positions: I am looking to support two PhD students to work with me towards a mechanical understanding of morphing structures such as origami tessellations and lattice materials and metamaterials. By "understanding" I mean anything relevant to the theoretical and numerical modeling of these structures, in static and dynamic regimes, within the context of elasticity whether linearized or not as well as the fabrication and testing of toy models necessary to assess that "understanding".