Postdoc position in the modeling and simulation of fracture available at Sandia National Labs, Livermore, CA

The Mechanics of Materials Department performs fundamental experimental and analytical studies to understand the mechanical behavior of materials. Our experimental work covers the entire discovery-characterization-validation spectrum. Motivated by theory and observations, we develop models and the necessary numerical methods to simulate both deformation and failure under various mechanical and environmental loading conditions. The fidelity of our models and simulations varies from atomic to
continuum scales and is driven by both fundamental studies in material behavior and specific Sandia applications.

We are seeking a post-doctoral candidate with experience and interest in developing numerical methods and models for fracture to assist with a variety of material failure modeling and simulation activities. Knowledge of fracture mechanics and experience in numerical methods and code development are required. Also desired is experience with computational fracture methods, such as adaptive insertion, strain localization, and partition of unity methods for incorporating cohesive zone approaches to modeling fracture in a finite element framework. The position offers a unique opportunity to work closely with our team of fracture and
constitutive model developers, material scientists, experimentalists and analysts to investigate and model material failure in a variety of materials and systems from atomistic to continuum length scales.

REQUIRED:

- PhD degree in computational material science, computational
mechanics, or a related field.

- Exposure to fracture mechanics and experience in code
development for finite element analysis.

- Strong communication skills and ability to contribute and function
as an effective member of a team of researchers.

DESIRED:

- Experience with fracture analysis and familiarity with
computational fracture methods.

- A strong background in materials science, and/or mathematical
modeling.

- Knowledge of the nature and behavior of material defects.

- Ability to program in C++.

To submit an application for this job, please contact please contact Er-Ping (Tony) Chen at epchen@sandia.gov above and/or visit the URL: http://www.sandia.gov/employment/career-opp/index.html