Thesis Work - Evaluation of Human Body Models in Car-to-Pedestrian Accidents

Volvo Cars; Göteborgs kommun; On-site; SEK 400 000 - 600 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading automotive manufacturer in Gothenburg is looking for two thesis workers to evaluate Human Body Models in car-to-pedestrian crash simulations. This 20-week position at Volvo Cars Safety Centre will start in January 2026 and offers hands-on experience in innovative automotive safety research. Applicants should have a Master's degree and relevant knowledge in Finite Element analysis and biomechanics. Apply with your CV in English by 31st October 2025.

Qualifications

• Suitable for two students with relevant knowledge and skills.
• Conducted at Volvo Cars Safety Centre during spring 2026.
• Must be in agreement with your Thesis Advisor at the University.

Responsibilities

• Evaluate multiple HBMs in crash simulations.
• Pre-process, run, and analyze simulations using FE methods.
• Discuss implications for virtual testing frameworks.

Skills

Knowledge of Finite Element method

Understanding of biomechanics

Scripting skills

Education

Master's degree in a relevant field

Tools

LS-DYNA FE software

Job description

Overview

Thesis Worker at Volvo Cars

Welcome to explore the world of Volvo Cars by writing your thesis with us! As a thesis worker in our organization you are supported by a supervisor who follows you during your project. Through your thesis work you will be able to contribute to our company purpose – providing freedom to move in a safe, sustainable and personal way – from day one!

About this opportunity - Background

Crashworthiness has traditionally been evaluated using Anthropomorphic Test Devices (ATDs), commonly known as crash test dummies. To advance vehicle safety, detailed mathematical models of the human body — Human Body Models (HBMs) — are being developed. These models offer improved anatomical realism and enable more detailed analysis of human response in crash scenarios.

As part of a broader shift toward virtual testing, organizations such as Euro NCAP are planning to incorporate HBMs into future vehicle rating protocols. This creates a need to understand how different HBMs behave in car-to-pedestrian impact scenarios and how they compare in terms of kinematic response and model characteristics.

This thesis will focus on evaluating multiple HBMs in car-to-pedestrian crash simulations. The goal is to compare model behavior across different impact configurations and assess their applicability for future virtual testing frameworks.

Scope of the thesis work

• Review recent literature on pedestrian crash simulation and the use of HBMs.
• Learn how to pre-process, run, and analyze Finite Element (FE) simulations involving HBMs.
• Select and implement multiple HBMs in representative car-to-pedestrian impact scenarios.
• Compare model responses and evaluate sensitivity to impact conditions.
• Discuss implications for future virtual testing and model selection strategies.

What you\'ll bring

The MSc-project is suitable for two students, preferably with good knowledge of the FE method, biomechanics, and scripting. The work will be carried out at Volvo Cars Safety Centre during spring 2026. FE simulations will be done using the LS-DYNA FE software.

Duration

• The work will start in January 2026
• The duration for this thesis work is 20 weeks.
• 30 ECTS (Master academic credits) if in agreement with your Thesis Advisor in University
• This thesis is to be conducted by 2 Students working in pair.

Volvo Cars. For Life.
For nearly a century, Volvo Cars has empowered people to move freely in a personal, sustainable and safe way. Today, we are driving bold advancements in electrification, sustainability and automotive safety. To realize our ambitious vision, we are seeking innovative minds who are ready to tackle the challenges of tomorrow – today.

In our company, we believe extraordinary things are achieved by ordinary people with the drive to make a difference.

Ready to take the next step?

Applications should include your CV and a brief personal letter stating your interests within the given area and your thoughts and credentials. Submit your CV in English

Applications must be received no later than 31st of October 2025. We are prioritising direct applications to ensure a fair and efficient application process.

For questions regarding the recruitment process, please contact Recruiter Radoslaw Piela at [e-mail].

For specific questions about the position, please reach out to Hiring Manager Luis Javier Velazquez Murguia at [e-mail].

Welcome with your application!