PhD position in computational fracture and damage mechanics

The Computational Physics and Mechanics Laboratory (CPML) at Vanderbilt University is seeking one PhD student interested in the area of computational fracture and damage mechanics.

Project Description: The goal of the project is to provide fundamental understanding of iceberg calving by advancing the frontiers in computational fracture mechanics and nonlinear continuum mechanics and translating it to glaciology. The specific aims are to simulate hydrofracture propagation in glacier ice and develop a fracture-mechanics-based scheme to better represent calving in continental-scale ice sheet models using multiscale methods. 

Qualifications: Applicants should have a Master’s and/or Bachelor’s degrees in Civil, Mechanical, or Aerospace Engineering, Engineering Mechanics, Physics, Applied Mathematics or a relevant field. The ideal candidate will have a background in continuum mechanics, fracture mechanics and finite element methods. Essential requirements are strong quantitative and analytical skills, solid knowledge and experience in scientific programming (with Python or C/C++ or Fortran), excellent grades and the ability to learn and employ new methods and technologies from different disciplines. Previous research experience in the field of computational mechanics and publications in reputed international journals is a plus. 

Timeline: The starting date can be in Spring 2020 or Fall 2020. Applications are accepted until the positions are filled. Positions are for 4-5 years. The candidate will be enrolled as PhD student at the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering. 

Applicants contact Prof. Ravindra Duddu ravindra.duddu@vanderbilt.eduwith their CV. 

Vanderbilt University, located in Nashville, Tennessee, is a leading research-intensive university in the United States in engineering, science and technology. Vanderbilt faculty and researchers are recognized for their pioneering research, scholarship, and leadership in higher education.