Challenge: Designing large-scale smart structures with stimuli-induced shape change
Change: Use new machine learning techniques to accelerate the design process
Impact: Novel applications
Job description
Smart materials have been widely successful in structure programming and stimuli-induced shape change with applications ranging from sustainable transportation to deep space exploration. However, the process of developing large-scale smart structures with tailored mechanical response has traditionally followed a forward design paradigm: computationally or experimentally testing a wide range of possible structures results in an effective structure- to-property map. Capitalizing on this strategy, trial-and-error or classical design optimization methods are unfortunately expensive, sensitive to the initial design guess, and yield only a sub-optimal design. A beneficial alternative is the on-demand inverse design of optimal structures, wherein an appropriate design is identified directly which achieves a targeted property (e.g., morphed shape). To this end, as the technologies for data-efficient machine learning (ML) become more mature, it is time to merge the benefits of smart materials and ML-accelerated design for application to large-scale structures.
This project will focus on the development of a ML-based inverse design framework for origami-inspired large-scale adaptive structures with integrated shape memory alloy based joints. Origami constructions will be leveraged for reduction of the design space, improved design interpretability, and data-efficiency of the ML-accelerated inverse design task. Potential immediate applications include inverse-designed morphing turbine blades, self-deployable wind and solar sails, multi-stiffness floating structures, adaptive cranes, reconfigurable grabs and silos, and many more.
The project is collaborative and inter-disciplinary in nature and will be jointly supervised by Dr. Jovana Jovanova (Assistant Professor, Maritime and Transport Technology) and Dr. Sid Kumar (Assistant Professor, Materials Science and Engineering) with expertise in smart structures and ML-based design techniques, respectively.
Requirements
For this position you should have the following:
- PhD in mechanical engineering, mechanical design, material science, applied mechanics or related areas,
- Good publication track-record,
- Good communication and writing skills in English,
- Desirable: experience with smart materials such as shape memory alloys,
- Desirable: proficiency in machine learning and data-driven methods.
Conditions of employment
Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities (€ 3.491- € 4.402). The TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, a discount on health insurance and sport memberships, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged.
For international applicants we offer the Coming to Delft Service and Partner Career Advice to assist you with your relocation. An International Children's Centre offers childcare and there is an international primary school.
TU Delft (Delft University of Technology)
Delft University of Technology is built on strong foundations. As creators of the world-famous Dutch waterworks and pioneers in biotech, TU Delft is a top international university combining science, engineering and design. It delivers world class results in education, research and innovation to address challenges in the areas of energy, climate, mobility, health and digital society. For generations, our engineers have proven to be entrepreneurial problem-solvers, both in business and in a social context. At TU Delft we embrace diversity and aim to be as inclusive as possible (see our Code of Conduct). Together, we imagine, invent and create solutions using technology to have a positive impact on a global scale.
Challenge. Change. Impact!
Faculty Mechanical, Maritime and Materials Engineering
The Faculty of 3mE carries out pioneering research, leading to new fundamental insights and challenging applications in the field of mechanical engineering. From large-scale energy storage, medical instruments, control technology and robotics to smart materials, nanoscale structures and autonomous ships. The foundations and results of this research are reflected in outstanding, contemporary education, inspiring students and PhD candidates to become socially engaged and responsible engineers and scientists. The faculty of 3mE is a dynamic and innovative faculty with an international scope and high-tech lab facilities. Research and education focus on the design, manufacture, application and modification of products, materials, processes and mechanical devices, contributing to the development and growth of a sustainable society, as well as prosperity and welfare.
Click here to go to the website of the Faculty of Mechanical, Maritime and Materials Engineering. Do you want to experience working at our faculty? This video will introduce you to some of our researchers and their work.
Additional information
For more information about this vacancy, please contact Jovana Jovanova, Assistant Professor, email: J.Jovanova@tudelft.nl, or Dr. Sid Kumar, Assistant Professor, email: Sid.Kumar@tudelft.nl.
For information about the selection procedure, please contact Nathalie van Benthum, HR advisor, email: application-3mE@tudelft.nl.
Application procedure
Are you interested in this vacancy? Please apply by 30 June via the application button and upload;
- a letter of motivation explaining why you are the right candidate for this project,
- a detailed CV (including academic record, names and contact addresses of two or three referees),
- list of publications.
Virtual interviews will be conducted for shortlisted candidates. We do not require reference letters at this stage, however, the references maybe contacted before the candidate is hired.
A pre-employment screening can be part of the selection procedure.
You can apply online. We will not process applications sent by email and/or post.
Acquisition in response to this vacancy is not appreciated.
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