PhD Research Studentship - University of Cambridge
Structures Group, Dept of Engineering
- UK/EU Applicants, Application deadline Dec 5th, 2011
A PhD Studentship at the University of Cambridge, Department of Engineering, is available for UK/EU students to commence by April 2012. The project will investigate the important issue of the lifetime extension of existing highway and building reinforced concrete infrastructure.
The use of fibre reinforced polymers (FRPs) for the shear strengthening of slab‐on‐beam reinforced concrete structures typically used in large bridges or buildings will be examined. The mechanics of shear failures in unstrengthened, and strengthened, reinforced concrete structures are complex. An experimental investigation of local behaviour will initially be undertaken using prototype specimens. The results’ implications will be used to investigate the overall behaviour of T‐beams of different depths, with both testing and analytical modelling of unstrengthened and strengthened beams. The performance of practical slab‐on‐beam structures, and the impact of strengthening interventions to extend service life, will then be assessed.
Applicants must have a strong first degree in a relevant engineering or science subject. Knowledge of structural analysis and design and/or mechanics of materials is particularly desirable. The studentship includes maintenance at the standard EPSRC rates and covers approved College and University fees for UK/EU students over a 3.5 year period. Please send a covering letter, a CV, transcripts, and the names of two academic referees to Lorna Everett, Structures Group Administrator (Div D), University of Cambridge, Department of Engineering (email lje31 [at] cam.ac.uk), by 5th December 2011. Informal enquiries about this post may be addressed to Dr Janet Lees (jmL2 [at] eng.cam.ac.uk).