MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowships Host Offer 2025– Department of Engineering, Niccolò Cusano Univer[...]

euraxess.ec.europa.eu - Jobboard; Italia; In loco; EUR 30.000 - 45.000; Tempo pieno

Descrizione del lavoro

The Niccolò Cusano University is seeking postdoctoral researchers for the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Postdoctoral Fellowship Scheme. Candidates with a PhD in relevant engineering fields are encouraged to apply, focusing on innovative research topics such as materials for bone tissue engineering and sustainable waste management. The university offers a collaborative environment with access to advanced laboratories and international partnerships.

Competenze

• Strong background in biomaterials and materials processing techniques.
• Experience with image/signal processing and drone operations.

Mansioni

• Conduct research in various engineering topics related to postdoctoral fellowship.
• Collaborate with academic and industry partners on EU-funded projects.

Conoscenze

Biomedical Engineering

Materials Engineering

Mechanical Engineering

Computer Vision

Robotics

Formazione

PhD

Descrizione del lavoro

Organisation / Company Niccolò Cusano University Department Engineering Is the Hosting related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure? No

The DI - Department of Engineering at the Niccolò Cusano University - welcomesexpressions of interestfrom Postdoctoral researchers with an excellent track records and original project ideas to apply jointly to the European Commission Marie Skłodowska-Curie Postdoctoral Fellowship Scheme in 2025 (MSCA-PF-2025). DI was established in December 2023 to consolidate the university’s strong expertise across Civil, Industrial, and Information Engineering into a unified and multidisciplinary research environment. The Department's mission is to promote high-level research and education across all main engineering sectors, including Mechanical, Computer, Electronic, Management, Civil, Environmental, and Materials Engineering. The DI provides a dynamic, multidisciplinary environment that fosters innovation and collaboration across academia and industry. We offer access to well-equipped research laboratories, an international network of partners, and personalized academic supervision to support the development of competitive fellowship proposals. Candidates are expected to align their research with one of the following priority topics, for which dedicated scientific advisors are available.

Brief description of the Niccolò Cusano University:

The Niccolò Cusano University is a dynamic and fast-growing Italian university, established in 2006 and headquartered in Rome. The university combines the flexibility of online education with the rigour of traditional academic standards, offering both on-campus and remote learning across a wide range of disciplines. With over 50,000 enrolled students and a vibrant research community, Niccolò Cusano University promotes innovation, interdisciplinarity, and global outreach. The academic offer includes more than 30 undergraduate and postgraduate degree programs across six main faculties (Engineering, Economics, Law, Psychology, Political Science, and Education Sciences), as well as several postgraduate specialization courses and professional masters. The university also hosts PhD programs in Engineering, Legal Sciences, and Human Sciences, supporting advanced research training in collaboration with national and international partners. The main campus, located in Rome, includes modern laboratories, student residences, a research and innovation hub, and spaces dedicated to entrepreneurship and knowledge exchange. The university maintains strategic collaborations with industry, public institutions, and international academic networks to foster cutting-edge research and societal impact.

The Niccolò Cusano University is committed to excellence in research and international cooperation, actively participating in European and national research programs. The university received strong performance scores in the areas of international orientation, knowledge transfer, and regional engagement, ranking among the top private Italian universities for graduate employability and internationalization. In the 2025 edition of the SCImago Institutions Rankings, Università Niccolò Cusano is placed in Q2 (second quartile) societal rank.

Brief description of the Department:

The Department of Engineering at Niccolò Cusano University supports three Bachelor’s and five Master’s Degree Programmes, as well as three PhD programmes in Engineering. The Department is committed to fostering excellence in research through a strong integration of teaching, scientific innovation, and industry collaboration. It plays a key role in the university’s strategic focus on applied research and technology transfer. Research activities are carried out by professors, postdoctoral fellows, PhD students, research assistants, and technical staff, and are supported through competitive national and international funding. The research groups are actively involved in EU-funded projects, including Horizon Europe and LIFE, and collaborate with international academic and industrial partners. The Department is moreover committed to third mission activities and strives to generate societal impact by facilitating scientific, technological, and cultural knowledge transfer.

The Department is gaining increasing recognition for its contributions to scientific research. According to the Scimago-IR Overall rank, the Department of Engineering ranks 44th among Italian universities and 1822nd worldwide, reflecting its strong and growing research output. Percentile rankings further highlight its performance:

• Overall: 48th percentile, indicating balanced strength across research, innovation, and societal impact.
• Research: 64th percentile, showcasing significant scientific productivity and publication impact.
• Innovation: 52nd percentile, representing active engagement in knowledge transfer, patents, and industry collaboration.

The Department hosts advanced laboratories located on the Rome Campus, covering over 550 m², which support experimental research in structural mechanics, material characterization, environmental monitoring, automation, and computer science. These facilities are shared across research groups and are fully accessible to postdoctoral researchers, promoting interdisciplinary collaboration.

Research Topics at the Department of Engineering –Niccolò Cusano University

Topic of interest #1: Formulation, development and characterization of materials and systems for bone tissue engineering application

Due to improvements in quality of life, increased life expectancy, and population ageing, the incidence of bone injuries and diseases has significantly increased, with a clear impact on both socioeconomic and healthcare systems.

Although major progress has been pursued over the years, current therapies still present several limitations (limited supply, secondary surgery, donor site morbidity, infection risk, recurrent pain). In this scenario the bone tissue engineering is attracting increasing attention as a promising and emerging alternative to the common and current clinical treatments (autografts, allografts and xenografts). In particular, the selection of a suitable template (scaffold’) which should act as a temporary matrix for cell proliferation, extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition, bone in-growth and neo-vascularization is pivotal. In its design, many aspects must be simultaneously considered, including the chemical composition, the microstructure, the mechanical and surface properties, which significantly influence the interaction with the cells and the tissues (mechanochemical transduction).

In the regenerative and tissue engineering field several efforts are currently devoted to the devise of biomimetic multifunctional composites able to simulate the composition and/or the morphology of the tissue to be regenerated. Indeed, following the biomimetic approach, it is fundamental not only to reproduce the chemical composition of the native tissue but also to resemble the structure and to properly tailor the surface properties, particularly in terms of topography and wettability. The chemical and physical properties of the designed materials can be suitably tuned to drive stem cell fate both in vitro and in vivo, being able to furnish a specific set of signals, favoring cell adhesion, movement, orientation and proliferation, as well as differentiation, in the case of stem cells, towards specific cell phenotypes (mechanochemical transduction) In this context, the research activity aims to provide a wide range of innovative biomaterials, based on biopolymers, bioactive ceramic and glass-ceramic materials with improved bioactivity, mechanical and biological performances and consequent actual perspective of clinical employment for bone tissue reconstruction and regeneration.

Among the processing scaffolds techniques, additive manufacturing approaches and electrospinning have attracted significant interest. In this framework, biopolymeric and composite systems can be developed. The obtained systems will be fully characterized in terms of microstructural, thermal, and mechanical and biological properties by observation at scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction, Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy measurements, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), X-Ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, uniaxial tensile tests, cytotoxicity tests.

We welcome applications from candidates with a PhD in biomedical engineering, industrial engineering, materials engineering (or science), mechanical engineering, or related disciplines. A strong background in biomaterials, materials processing techniques, such as additive manufacturing and electrospinning, is essential, along with consolidated expertise in biomaterials synthesis and chemical-physical characterization.

Topic of interest #2: Evaluation and management of water resources through remote sensing techniques in a GIS environment, with particular reference to small lakes.

Attention is given to the use of open-source images and processing environments (e.g. GEE-Google Earth Engine). The main applications aim to identify surface water bodies, to evaluate geometric characteristics and monitor hydraulic and water quality parameters.

Topic of interest #3: Seismic Risk at Urban Scale

Development of models, tools, and strategies for assessing and mitigating seismic risk in complex urban environments. The research focuses on multi-scale seismic vulnerability assessment, incorporating fragility curves to model the probabilistic response of buildings under different seismic intensities. Additional topics include urban-scale exposure modelling, scenario-based damage prediction, and risk-informed planning to support decision-making for risk reduction, emergency preparedness, and post-event recovery.

Topic of interest #4: Retrofitting Techniques with Composite Materials

Advanced solutions for the strengthening and upgrading of existing structures through the use of composite materials, including fiber-reinforced polymers (FRP) and Textile Reinforced Mortar (TRM) systems with natural fibres. The focus is on improving structural performance, durability, and sustainability in both historical and modern constructions.

Topic of interest #5: Timber Structures for a Sustainable Future

Structural design and performance assessment of timber systems, with emphasis on their application in seismic zones. Research focuses on the mechanical behavior of timber elements, the development and optimization of steel-timber connections, and the integration of engineered wood products (e.g., CLT, glulam) in resilient structural solutions. Sustainability, low environmental impact, and structural efficiency are key drivers in both new constructions and retrofitting interventions.

Topic of interest #6: Steel Structures: Optimized Structural and Mechanical Members

Advanced approaches to design and optimize steel elements for high performance, durability, and sustainability. The research explores innovative configurations such as perforated steel plates used to reduce weight and material consumption while maintaining or improving load-bearing capacity and stiffness. Topics include buckling behavior, fatigue resistance, connection detailing, and the numerical and experimental validation of high-performance steel components for seismic and non-seismic applications.

Topic of interest #7: Non-Contact techniques for fast and accurate diagnostics

This research topic focuses on the development and application of non-contact testing techniques for the structural diagnostics of both civil infrastructure (e.g., bridges, buildings, tunnels) and heritage assets (e.g., historic masonry, monuments). The goal is to enhance structural safety and resilience through fast, non-invasive methods suitable for both contemporary and vulnerable structures. The hosting research group brings together expertise in structural engineering, digital monitoring, and material diagnostics, and has ongoing collaborations on the topic.

A key aspect of the research will be the use of image-based diagnostics supported by AI and machine learning tools for damage detection, crack evolution monitoring, and pattern recognition. Particular attention will be given to the integration of these techniques on drone-mounted platforms for remote, large-scale, or difficult-to-access inspections, allowing for increased flexibility and safety in diagnostic operations.

Potential research directions include (but are not limited to):

• AI-assisted image analysis for detecting surface anomalies and structural pathologies.
• Development of autonomous or semi-autonomous drone workflows for structural inspections.
• Fusion of data from multiple non-contact sensors to enhance diagnostic accuracy.
• Development of AI algorithms for anomaly detection in sensor data (e.g., from strain gauges, accelerometers, or crack sensors).
• Vision-based damage detection using deep learning for crack mapping and deformation tracking.
• Integration of AI tools with edge computing for onsite decision-making in resource-constrained environments.
• Benchmarking of non-contact NDT protocols for both modern and historic construction materials.

Candidates with a background in civil or structural engineering, computer vision, or robotics are encouraged to apply. Prior experience with image/signal processing, drone operations, or NDT technologies will be considered a strong asset. The fellow will have the opportunity to work on real-world case studies and contribute to cross-sectoral innovation in smart diagnostics and structural monitoring.

Topic of interest #8: Integrated Retrofitting for enhanced sustainability

This research area addresses the urgent need to upgrade the existing building stock—particularly in Europe—with strategies that enhance not only structural performance but also energy efficiency, environmental sustainability, and long-term resilience. The focus is on integrated retrofitting approaches, combining structural reinforcement, thermal upgrading, and smart energy solutions into a unified intervention strategy.

The selected MSCA fellow will be encouraged to explore holistic retrofitting concepts, leveraging synergies between structural reinforcement (e.g., FRPs, engineered mortars) and energy technologies (e.g., PCM-enhanced materials, hempcrete). Emphasis will be placed on design for sustainability, supported by Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and cost-benefit analyses. Both digital modelling and lab-scale testing can be part of the research pathway, depending on the fellow’s background and project objectives.

Potential research directions include (but are not limited to):

• Development and testing of multifunctional retrofitting materials and components.
• Coupled thermal-structural modelling of retrofitted systems.
• Integration of phase change materials (PCMs) or bio-based materials for passive thermal control.
• Post-retrofit monitoring strategies (sensors, IoT) and performance evaluation.
• Optimization of retrofitting solutions under multiple criteria (cost, CO₂, resilience).
• Policy-oriented studies assessing the scalability of integrated retrofitting programs.

Candidates with a PhD in civil engineering, energy engineering, or related disciplines are invited to propose original research projects. Previous experience in sustainability assessment, structural analysis, building physics, or experimental methods will be highly valued.

Topic of interest #9: Sustainable Waste Management

The hosting research group is actively involved in several European-funded pilot-scale projects, offering a unique opportunity to work with real-world systems. While the proposed research will be based on process modelling and systems analysis, the selected MSCA fellow will be expected to participate in site visits and collaborative work at pilot plants across Europe. As such, candidates must demonstrate availability and willingness to engage with stakeholders and project partners at these facilities.

The focus will be on sustainable energy recovery from biowaste and sewage sludge through innovative thermochemical technologies, particularly pyrolysis and gasification, with strong emphasis on systemic sustainability assessment. A key component of the project will be the application of a comprehensive Life Cycle Sustainability Assessment (LCSA) framework—integrating Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), Life Cycle Costing (LCC), and Social Life Cycle Assessment (S-LCA). LCSA will be used not only as an evaluative tool but as a design and decision-making framework to guide the development of innovative, socially and environmentally responsible waste-to-energy technologies.

We invite candidates to shape their own research vision within this thematic scope, proposing novel approaches, methodological advancements, or interdisciplinary angles. Potential areas of interest include (but are not limited to): integration of thermochemical processes into broader circular economy systems, valorisation of by-products, modelling of hybrid or decentralized systems, digital tools for sustainability performance prediction, or policy-relevant assessments supporting sustainable transitions.

The ideal applicant will hold a PhD in environmental or chemical engineering, sustainability science, process systems modelling, or a related field, and will have a strong interest in sustainability assessment, circular economy, and technology-policy interface. Prior experience with LCA, LCC, and S-LCA is an asset.

Topic of interest #10: Computational Mechanics

This research topic focuses on the development and application of advanced numerical models to simulate the nonlinear mechanical behaviour of materials and structures under complex loading and environmental conditions. Framed within the domain of computational mechanics, the work aims to enhance the predictive capabilities of structural simulations through novel constitutive models, multi-scale approaches, and computationally efficient algorithms.

The MSCA fellow will have the opportunity to tailor their research to specific structural systems—such as masonry, composite structures, or innovative retrofitting solutions using advanced materials—based on their own background and interests. Emphasis will be given to the integration between numerical simulations and experimental data, allowing for thorough model validation and the exploration of material degradation phenomena, such as aging, cracking, or environmental exposure effects.

Key research directions may include (but are not limited to):

• Development of nonlinear constitutive models for historic or heterogeneous materials.
• Simulation of retrofitting strategies using fiber-reinforced polymers (FRPs), textile-reinforced mortars (FRCMs), or innovative composites.
• Modelling of interface behaviour, delamination, or cracking in multi-material systems.
• Assessment of long-term performance and durability through coupled mechanical-environmental models.
• Implementation of multi-physics simulations, including thermo-mechanical or chemo-mechanical effects.

The hosting group offers a dynamic and research-intensive environment, combining computational and experimental expertise with active collaboration across disciplines. Facilities include high-performance computing infrastructure and access to structural testing laboratories.

Ideal candidates will hold a PhD in structural engineering, applied mechanics, computational science, or related fields, with solid background in finite element modelling, constitutive theory, and numerical simulation of materials and structures. Prior experience with nonlinear analysis or model validation will be considered an asset.

Topic of interest #11: Development of Hybrid Noise Mitigation Systems for Drone Rotors

This research topic targets the growing need for effective noise reduction strategies in the rapidly expanding field of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), with a specific focus on rotor-generated noise. The project will explore innovative combinations of passive control techniques, such as blade serration and geometric modifications, with active control methods, notably rotor synchronization, to achieve advanced levels of acoustic mitigation.

A significant experimental component will be conducted in a state-of-the-art anechoic chamber, where microphone array techniques will be employed to capture and analyse the acoustic signature of drone rotors under different operating and control configurations. These tests will be complemented by the development of analytical and numerical models aimed at predicting sound generation mechanisms and optimising the performance of hybrid mitigation strategies.

The research environment provides access to dedicated experimental facilities and signal processing infrastructure, enabling high-resolution spatial and spectral characterisation of rotor noise. Key technologies will include MATLAB and LabVIEW for data acquisition, real-time control, and signal post-processing.

Potential research directions may include (but are not limited to):

• Integration of passive and active mitigation strategies in rotor design.
• Development of feedback-based control algorithms for noise minimisation.
• Advanced signal processing techniques for beamforming and source localisation.
• Evaluation of perceptual noise metrics and environmental impact of UAV operations.

We welcome applications from candidates with a PhD in aeronautical engineering, acoustics, mechanical engineering, or related disciplines. A strong background in aeroacoustics, rotor dynamics, and experimental methods is essential, along with proven proficiency in MATLAB and LabVIEW environments.

Topic of interest #12: Digital Technologies and Innovation in Deep Tech

Advanced manufacturing processes, such as additive manufacturing, are characterized by dynamic complexity, resulting in high variability in the quality of produced parts, which limits their widespread adoption. To overcome these challenges, sophisticated techniques such as machine learning and artificial intelligence can be employed in support of finite element numerical models used to simulate the physical phenomena governing the process. These techniques can solve key industrial problems in a data-driven way, transforming raw input data—often dynamic and nonlinear—into complex models that can be used for prediction, recognition, classification, analysis, and projection. The process must be monitored with sensors to collect data and images during fabrication, especially with regard to critical quality points. These datasets will then be integrated into AI algorithms for analysis, and, based on contextual situations, may provide intervention proposals. This research has the potential to reach a wide range of markets due to the exponential growth of advanced manufacturing techniques in recent years across various industrial sectors, such as automotive, aerospace, biomedical, and more—offering opportunities to increase productivity and foster progress in sustainable development.

Topic of interest #13: Metamaterials and Smart Materials

The theme of metamaterials and smart materials encompasses the development of advanced solutions with tailored physical and functional properties. In particular, the integration of metamaterials and smart materials into additive manufacturing opens up new possibilities for creating complex, lightweight, and multifunctional structures. A strategic application area is the production of functional composite materials for electromagnetic shielding, which are essential for protecting electronic devices in high-interference environments. These innovative approaches combine advanced design, adaptive functionality, and sustainability, contributing to the development of high-performance technologies in the fields of electronics, aerospace, and advanced manufacturing.

Topic of interest #14: Clean and Resource-Efficient Technologies

The transition towards clean and resource-efficient technologies, including those with net-zero emissions, also involves innovation in advanced manufacturing processes. Surface finishing techniques for components with complex geometries, produced through additive manufacturing, represent a key element for improving the functional performance and durability of products, while simultaneously reducing material and energy waste. At the same time, repair, regeneration, and additive remanufacturing practices enable the extension of component lifecycles, lowering environmental costs and promoting a circular economy. Furthermore, the development and fine-tuning of decoating technologies, that is, the removal of surface coatings from damaged components, make it possible to recover (and, if necessary, repair) the substrate. This allows for the regeneration of coated components, thereby extending their service life, or for the recycling of the substrates themselves, with a view to safeguarding natural, energy, and mineral resources. These solutions integrate efficiency, sustainability, and innovation, making a significant contribution to the development of low environmental impact industrial technologies. The research has the potential to reach a wide range of markets, given the exponential spread of additive manufacturing techniques in recent years across various industrial sectors, including automotive, aerospace, biomedical, and more. Regeneration and recovery of coated components also show potential applications in major industrial and technological sectors, particularly in aerospace, mechanical, and automotive industries, further confirming the strong appeal and relevance of the proposed innovative solutions.

Topic of interest #15: Data-Driven Seismic Risk and Loss Assessment of Existing Buildings: Integrating Structural Vulnerability, Economic Impact, and Decision Support

This research topic aims to enhance the assessment of seismic risk in existing buildings by combining structural vulnerability analysis with detailed estimations of both direct and indirect economic losses, as well as social impacts. Emphasis is placed on the integration of empirical post-earthquake data, advanced numerical models, and artificial intelligence tools to develop robust, multi-dimensional risk frameworks. The approach supports informed decision-making processes and urban resilience strategies, focusing on building-level assessments that can be scaled up for territorial planning. The primary structural typologies considered are masonry and reinforced concrete buildings.

Potential research directions include:

• Development and calibration of fragility functions for masonry and reinforced concrete structures.
• Definition and implementation of consequence models for:
  • Direct economic losses (e.g., repair and reconstruction costs);
  • Indirect economic losses (e.g., loss of functionality, business interruption);
  • Social impacts (e.g., casualties, injuries, displaced populations);
• Formulation of probabilistic risk assessment frameworks incorporating uncertainty and interdependencies.
• Integration of empirical damage data with nonlinear numerical simulations and analytical methods.
• Comparative analysis of simplified and advanced structural models to support scalable applications.
• Laboratory testing and experimental validation of components or scaled structures to support model calibration.
• Development of loss models integrating structural typology, socioeconomic factors, and spatial exposure data to enable high-resolution, building-level risk analysis.
• Application of AI for damage detection, vulnerability pattern recognition, and predictive modelling.
• Use of GIS and geospatial tools to map risk levels and guide evidence-based emergency planning and intervention prioritization.

This topic is suitable for candidates with a background in structural and earthquake engineering, risk and vulnerability analysis, and a strong interest in combining computational modelling, data science, and territorial analysis within seismic risk frameworks.

Topic of interest #16: Climate Change-Induced Flood and Tsunami Risk: Economic Loss Estimation and Structural Nonlinear Behavior Assessment

This research topic addresses the growing and still underexplored challenge of assessing the risk associated with flood and tsunami events increasingly driven by climate change. The project focuses on quantifying the vulnerability of the built environment and estimating economic losses through the development of integrated, multi-hazard risk assessment frameworks. Structural analysis will play a central role, particularly in understanding the nonlinear behaviour of buildings and infrastructure under extreme hydrodynamic loads.

The research will target both flood and tsunami hazards, highlighting their similarities and specificities in terms of physical impact, damage mechanisms, and loss modelling. The study will focus on reinforced concrete and masonry structures, which represent the most common typologies in urban and coastal areas exposed to these hazards.

Potential research directions include:

• Structural vulnerability assessment under flood and tsunami actions, including nonlinear behaviour modelling for masonry and reinforced concrete buildings.
• Development of fragility curves specific to hydraulic impacts.
• Definition of consequence functions for the estimation of:
  • Direct economic losses (e.g., repair, reconstruction, equipment damage),
  • Indirect economic losses (e.g., business disruption, accessibility loss);
• Construction of scenario-based multi-hazard risk frameworks integrating structural response, hazard intensity, and exposure.
• Use of GIS-based tools for spatial risk mapping, vulnerability analysis, and simulation of hazard scenarios.
• Application of artificial intelligence techniques to support the prediction of structural damage, automate scenario generation, and improve the reliability and efficiency of loss estimation models.
• Experimental investigations on materials or small-scale components subjected to hydraulic loading conditions, using dedicated mechanical testing equipment, to support the calibration of models and validate key assumptions in structural vulnerability assessment.
• Exploration of the synergies and differences between tsunami-induced and flood-induced damage mechanisms.

This topic is particularly suitable for researchers with expertise in structural engineering, hydrodynamic loads, and disaster risk modelling, and for those interested in combining numerical analysis, geospatial tools, and artificial intelligence in the context of climate-related hazards.

Topic of interest #17: Artificial Intelligence for Risk Assessment and Decision Support in Civil Engineering

This research topic focuses on leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance risk assessment and decision-making processes in civil engineering, particularly in the context of structural vulnerability and disaster response. The integration of data-driven methods into engineering workflows offers significant potential for improving the accuracy, speed, and scalability of risk analyses, especially when dealing with complex or data-scarce scenarios.

The project aims to combine engineering expertise with machine learning and advanced data processing techniques to support predictive modelling, automate post-event assessments, and guide prioritization of interventions in both routine monitoring and emergency contexts.

Potential research directions include:

• Application of machine learning algorithms to identify patterns in structural monitoring data and post-disaster damage databases.
• Development of predictive models for structural damage and performance under seismic, flood, or multi-hazard scenarios.
• Integration of AI-based tools with traditional engineering models to improve the reliability of vulnerability and fragility assessments.
• Use of natural language processing (NLP) and computer vision to automate the interpretation of inspection reports, photos, and open-source data.
• Design of AI-driven decision support systems for emergency response, resource allocation, and retrofit prioritization.
• Evaluation of model transparency, interpretability, and uncertainty to ensure practical applicability and trust in engineering contexts.
• Experimental data collection from physical testing or sensor-based monitoring to train and validate AI models for real-world applications.

This topic is ideal for researchers interested in bridging civil engineering with artificial intelligence, and for those aiming to develop innovative, interdisciplinary approaches to structural risk management and resilience.

Topic of interest #18: Innovative Seismic Design and Global Performance Assessment of Steel Structures

This research topic explores advanced methodologies for the seismic design and performance assessment of steel structures, with particular focus on their global response, ductility, and failure mechanisms. Addressing the increasing demand for safe, resilient, and sustainable building systems, the project targets structural solutions capable of meeting both functional needs and performance-based design criteria.

The study emphasizes the system-level behavior of innovative steel configurations—such as tall buildings, modular structures, and lateral-load resisting systems—investigated through a combination of nonlinear numerical simulations and experimental validation. Special attention is given to the integration of advanced modelling with practical design approaches aimed at enhancing seismic resilience and structural efficiency.

Potential research directions include:

• Nonlinear static and dynamic analysis of steel structures under seismic loading conditions.
• Development and validation of performance-based design methodologies for full structural systems.
• Investigation of seismic-resistant components such as steel plate shear walls, braced frames, and energy dissipation devices.
• Study of global and local instability modes and their impact on collapse mechanisms.
• Use of advanced finite element modelling to capture complex geometries, connection behavior, and inelastic material response.
• Comparative assessment of traditional and modular construction systems in terms of resilience, constructability, and environmental sustainability.
• Development of simplified analytical tools for early-stage design and support of code evolution.

This topic is particularly suited for candidates with a solid background in structural engineering, seismic design, and nonlinear analysis, and for those interested in developing next-generation steel structures with enhanced seismic and functional performance.

CANDIDATE’S REQUIREMENTS:

*Research Field

The applicant, according to his previous background and interest, may participate in any of the abovementioned research lines.

* Call requirements:

Warning:Applicants should check of MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowships, such as:

a) To be eligible should have aPhDat the time of the deadline for applications and must have no more than eight years of research experience.

b) Comply with mobility rules: Not have resided or carried out your main activity (work, studies, etc.) in Spain for more than 12 months in the 36 months immediately before the call deadline.

* How to Apply:

Applicants shall send aCV including a brief description of your career, main publications, contributions to congresses, and experience in the fieldwork, together with a one-page research proposal to the contact person of the topic of interest,before 25th July 2025. Promising candidates will be contacted for an interview and potential collaboration on the full proposal.