Postdoc position on hybrid testing for multibody dynamical systems

Aarhus University (AU); Aarhus; On-site; DKK 420,000 - 540,000; Full time

Job summary

1000scholars is seeking a postdoctoral researcher in Aarhus to develop computational methods for multibody dynamics and perform hybrid testing related to floating wind turbines. You will also support teaching in structural and multibody dynamics and co-supervise MSc/PhD projects.

The candidate should hold a PhD in structural dynamics, with strong programming and research dissemination skills. English proficiency is essential, Danish at intermediate level.

Qualifications

• PhD in structural dynamics or related engineering field.
• Engineering background in mechanical or civil engineering.
• Experience with hybrid testing experiments.
• Development of multibody dynamics software using Kane's method.
• Implementation of control algorithms and robotics for hexapod-like loading systems.
• Excellent English and intermediate Danish; some teaching at the BSc level in Danish.
• Scientific computing with Python and MATLAB/Simulink.

Responsibilities

• Develop computational methods for multibody dynamics.
• Perform hybrid testing experiments related to floating wind turbines.
• Support teaching activities in structural dynamics and multibody dynamics.
• Disseminate research through journals and conferences.
• Co-supervise MSc and PhD projects.

Skills

Hybrid testing

MBD software

Control algorithms & robotics

English proficiency

Danish proficiency

Scientific computing

Python/ MATLAB

Education

PhD in structural dynamics

Tools

Python

MATLAB/Simulink

Job description

Expected start date and duration of employment

This is a two-year position starting from 1 February 2027, or as soon as possible thereafter.

Job description

• You will develop computational methods for multibody dynamics.
• You will perform hybrid testing experiments related to floating wind turbines.
• You will support teaching activities in structural dynamics and multibody dynamics.
• You will disseminate your work through international peer review journals and international conferences.
• You will co-supervise student projects and PhD students in the subject areas of this position.

Your profile

Applicants should hold a PhD in structural dynamics (or similar) and an engineering background (mechanical or civil engineering). Also, the following competencies and skills are required:

• Carrying out experiments using the hybrid testing method.
• Development of multibody dynamic simulation software using modern approaches (e.g., Kane's method).
• Implementation of control algorithms and robotics for controlling hexapod-like loading systems.
• Excellent English proficiency and intermediate Danish proficiency (some teaching tasks are at the BSc level, which is in Danish).
• Scientific computing, possibly with different programming languages (e.g., Python, MATLAB/Simulink).

Moreover, the candidate shall demonstrate the following experiences:

• Teaching in the areas of structural mechanics (experimental and computational).
• Supervision of M.Sc. level student projects and theses.
• Conduct collaborative research projects at national and international level.
• Disseminate their work in the best channels for the subject area (journal publications and conference participation).

Who we are

The Department of Civil and Architectural Engineering at Aarhus University is a growing engineering environment with a clear vision for the future of the built environment.

Established in 2021, the department today includes more than 100 researchers and educators and around 1,050 students.

We conduct research and education within structural engineering, geotechnics, architectural engineering and design, sustainability, construction management, climate adaptation, indoor climate, building materials, and digital technologies.

The construction sector is facing major challenges related to climate, resource consumption, and the way we design and build our cities and buildings.

Through research, education, and collaboration with industry and public-sector partners, we contribute to developing technological solutions that support a more sustainable built environment.

Our research and development activities are closely connected to the needs of industry and society, and many projects are carried out in collaboration with companies, public authorities, and other research environments. This ensures that the knowledge and technologies developed at the department are relevant in practice and create value beyond the university.

Education is a central part of the department’s identity. We offer Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD programmes in engineering and continuously work to improve the connection between research, teaching, and practice.

Place of work and area of employment

The place of work is at Navitas, Inge Lehmanns Gade 10, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark. The area of employment is Aarhus University with related departments.

Contact information

For further information, please contact: Associate Professor, Giuseppe Abbiati [phone], [e-mail].

Deadline

Applications must be received no later than 9 November 2026.

Applicants are encouraged to submit a 1-page project description with a research plan proposal.

Application procedure

Shortlisting is used. This means that after the deadline for applications - and with the assistance from the assessment committee chairman, and the appointment committee if necessary, - the head of department selects the candidates to be evaluated. All applicants will be notified whether or not their applications have been sent to an expert assessment committee for evaluation. The selected applicants will be informed about the composition of the committee, and each applicant is given the opportunity to comment on the part of the assessment that concerns him/her self.

Formalities and salary range

Salary and terms as agreed between the Danish Ministry of Taxation and the Confederation of Professional Unions at basic salary steps 4-8.

Aarhus University's ambition is to be an attractive and inspiring workplace for all and to foster a culture in which each individual has opportunities to thrive, achieve and develop. We view equality and diversity as assets, and we welcome all applicants.

Research activities will be evaluated in relation to actual research time. Thus, we encourage applicants to specify periods of leave without research activities, in order to be able to subtract these periods from the span of the scientific career during the evaluation of scientific productivity.

Aarhus University offers a broad variety of services for international researchers and accompanying families, including relocation service and career counselling to expat partners.

Aarhus University also offers a Junior Researcher Development Programme targeted at career development for postdocs at AU.