Researcher - Next-Generation Roof Decking with Perforations and Micro-Profiling

Karlstad University; Elsene; Sur place; EUR 22 320 - 29 016; Plein temps

Avantages offerts par ce poste

Homeworking options

Telework allowance

Health insurance

Travel reimbursement

Campus meals

Sport facilities and discounts

Résumé du poste

Vrije Universiteit Brussel invites applications for a predoctoral PhD position in the Mechanica van materialen en constructies department, funded under PERFORM (RFCS). The project focuses on the structural behaviour of light- and micro-profiled steel roof sheeting, combining experimental work and numerical modelling to develop robust, optimized design solutions.

You will contribute to research and education, supervise tutorials when needed, and collaborate with industrial partners.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Civil Engineering or related field.
• Strong background in mechanics of materials and computational mechanics; familiarity with finite element simulations; proficiency with ABAQUS; programming skills (MATLAB, Python, or C++).
• Knowledge of design and structural analysis of steel structures; familiarity with Eurocodes, especially cold-formed thin-walled sections.
• Reliable, autonomous, and proactive; experience with experimental characterization is an advantage.
• Ability to publish in peer-reviewed journals and work in an international environment; proficient in English (CEFR C1).
• Accommodation of residence requirements for non-EEA nationals where applicable.

Responsabilités

• Conduct experimental and numerical research on the structural behaviour of light- and micro-profiled steel roof decking.
• Design and perform laboratory experiments; develop and validate finite element models; formulate analytical/design-oriented models.
• Investigate effects of micro-profiling and perforations on structural performance; study interaction with supporting steel structures.
• Collaborate with academic and industrial partners to develop reliable, efficient and sustainable design solutions.
• Coordinate and supervise tutorials and laboratory sessions; teaching assignments determined yearly in consultation.

Description du poste

Overview

Researcher - Next-Generation Roof Decking with Perforations and Micro-Profiling

At the Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), you will contribute to research and education in a diverse, inclusive environment. The Faculty of Engineering invites applications for a predoctoral PhD position within the Mechanica van materialen en constructies department. The project PERFORM (RFCS) investigates structural behaviour of light- and micro-profiled steel roof sheeting and related design solutions.

Responsibilities

• Conduct experimental and numerical research on structural behaviour and design of light- and micro-profiled steel roof decking.
• Design and perform laboratory experiments; develop and validate finite element models; formulate analytical/design-oriented models.
• Investigate the combined effects of micro-profiling and perforations on structural performance; study interaction with the supporting steel structure, emphasizing rotational restraint and diaphragm action.
• Collaborate with academic and industrial partners to develop reliable, efficient and sustainable design solutions.
• Potentially coordinate and supervise tutorials and laboratory sessions; teaching assignments determined yearly in consultation with you and your colleagues.

Qualifications

• You hold a Master degree in Civil Engineering or related field.
• Knowledge of the design and structural analysis of steel structures; familiarity with Eurocodes, especially cold-formed thin-walled sections.
• Strong background in mechanics of materials, computational mechanics; experience with finite element simulations and optimization; proficiency with ABAQUS; programming skills (MATLAB, Python, or C++).
• Reliable, autonomous, and proactive; experience with (non-destructive) experimental characterization is an advantage.
• Interest in performing experimental and analytical/numerical research; ability to collaborate with partners; proficient in English (CEFR C1) or equivalent.
• Willingness to publish in peer-reviewed journals; collaborative mindset and ability to work in an international environment.
• Acceptance of the institution's residence requirements for non-EEA nationals where applicable.

Offer

• Full-time PhD scholarship for 12 months, extendable up to 48 months, starting 01/11/2026, contingent on positive evaluation.
• Access to experimental facilities and computing infrastructure; opportunities to present at international conferences.
• Government-scale grant; open, involved and diverse workplace; additional benefits including homeworking options, telework allowance, health insurance, travel reimbursement, campus meals, sport facilities and discounts.

Interested?

To apply, please submit your documents by 24/08/2026 via jobs.vub.be:

• Motivation letter including a short video link explaining motivation for doctoral study and application;
• CV with personal details, education, master thesis topic, transcripts, work experience (if any);
• Your diploma (not applicable for VUB alumni).

Incomplete applications will not be considered. The application process includes an initial selection and a job interview. For questions, contact Lincy Pylat at [e-mail] or 0032 2 6292920.