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EPFL, the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne, is one of the most dynamic university campuses in Europe and ranks among the top 20 universities worldwide. The EPFL employs more than 6,500 people supporting the three main missions of the institutions: education, research and innovation. The EPFL campus offers an exceptional working environment at the heart of a community of more than 17,000 people, including over 12,500 students and 4,000 researchers from more than 120 different countries.

Seismic behavior of composite structures with alternative force-capping mechanisms

Mission

We invite applications for a PhD position in Resilient Steel Structures Laboratory (RESSLab) of EPFL under the supervision of Prof. Lignos. The successful candidate will primarily work on the development of novel concepts for earthquake-resistant composite-steel concrete (CSC) structures by (a) exploiting force-capping mechanisms to enhance the seismic behavior of CSC structures; (b) by conducting large-scale testing to validate these concepts; (c) by developing and implementing into an open-source finite element program macro-models for quantifying system level effects and the seismic risk of CSC structures. Alternative force-capping mechanisms allow us to reduce the impact of material and construction uncertainties on the seismic response of CSC structures, thereby leading to the development of more robust structural systems.

Main duties and responsibilities

  • Participating in a multidisciplinary group of researchers in computational mechanics and structural engineering with emphasis on seismic loading;
  • Working with and mentoring master students;
  • Participating in teaching activities;
  • Conference travel and other professional development support

Profile

  • Experience in computational simulation of materials and/or structures.
  • Background and relevant coursework on steel and/or composite design, seismic engineering, structural dynamics, nonlinear analysis of structures and probability and statistics.
  • Knowledge on the finite element method and analysis of structures with material and geometric nonlinearities is highly desirable. Knowledge with programs such as OpenSees and ABAQUS is preferred.
  • Background in computer programming, such as C++, or Python or MATLAB.
  • Exceptional oral and written communication in English.
  • Effective interpersonal and collaborative skills.

We offer

  • Competitive salary supplemented with fringe and benefits.
  • Exceptional working conditions within a multicultural working environment.
  • Access to high-quality experimental and computational facilities.
  • 4-year contract conditioned that the candidacy exam is passed (qualifying exam)

Informations

  • Review of applications begins immediately and continues until the position is filled.
  • Requested CV, statement of purpose and the names of at least two referees.
  • Start date is as soon as possible but no longer than September 2025.










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