Postdoc in microstructure-informed modelling of fracture mechanics

KTH Royal Institute of Technology; Stockholms kommun; On-site; SEK 289,575 - 434,362; Full time

Job summary

KTH Royal Institute of Technology invites applications for a Postdoc position in microstructure-informed modelling of fracture mechanics. The role requires developing test geometries and conducting complex mechanical testing combined with advanced X-ray computed tomography.

The candidate will analyze data to improve damage mechanics models applicable to material failure. A doctoral degree is essential, and the position promotes equality and diversity, aligning with KTH's core values.

Qualifications

• A doctoral degree or equivalent foreign degree (must be obtained before the employment decision).
• Strong scientific skills and pedagogical ability, including a relevant doctoral thesis and international experience.
• Excellent proficiency in English (required for daily work).

Responsibilities

• Develop and refine test geometries for void nucleation studies.
• Conduct mechanical testing and combine it with advanced CT imaging in interrupted and in‑situ configurations.
• Analyze experimental data to inform improved continuum damage mechanics models.
• Integrate developed models into finite‑element simulations of material failure.

Skills

Strong scientific skills

Pedagogical ability

Analytic skills

Team-oriented

Education

Doctoral degree or equivalent foreign degree

Tools

X-ray computed tomography

Finite element simulations

Job description

Postdoc in microstructure-informed modelling of fracture mechanics

KTH Royal Institute of Technology, School of Engineering Sciences

The position focuses on experimental and computational fracture mechanics. The experimental work involves developing new test geometries to study void nucleation under a wide range of stress states, using a combination of mechanical testing and advanced X-ray computed tomography (CT) in both interrupted and in situ test setups. Initial studies will be carried out using in‑house microCT facilities and later extended to synchrotron experiments in collaboration with national and international partners. The experimental results will be used to develop improved models for void nucleation within continuum damage mechanics frameworks, suitable for implementation in finite element simulations of material failure. These models will be applied to study the ductile‑to‑brittle transition in HSLA steels.

Responsibilities

• Develop and refine test geometries for void nucleation studies.
• Conduct mechanical testing and combine it with advanced CT imaging in interrupted and in‑situ configurations.
• Analyze experimental data to inform improved continuum damage mechanics models.
• Integrate developed models into finite‑element simulations of material failure.
• Apply models to investigate the ductile‑to‑brittle transition in HSLA steels.
• Disseminate findings through international conferences and high‑impact journals.
• Collaborate with researchers from multidisciplinary backgrounds and support PhD students.
• Maintain scientific rigor, integrity, and a professional approach to complex research challenges.

Qualifications

• A doctoral degree or equivalent foreign degree (must be obtained before the employment decision).
• Strong scientific skills and pedagogical ability, including a relevant doctoral thesis and international experience.
• Excellent proficiency in English (required for daily work).
• Highly motivated, team‑oriented, capable of working independently, and analytic in complex challenges.

Preferred qualifications

• Doctoral degree or equivalent obtained within the last three years.
• Experience in mechanical testing and X‑ray CT at the micro‑ and nano‑scale.
• Good knowledge of computational nonlinear material mechanics.
• Teaching abilities.
• Awareness of diversity and equal‑opportunity issues, with a focus on gender equality.

Employment details

The position is offered for up to two years.

Equality, diversity and equal opportunities are essential to quality and are integral to KTH’s core values.