Two PhD positions in Micromechanics-based Modelling of Ductile Failure in High-Strength Aluminium Alloys

The Department of Structural Engineering at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) announces two fully funded PhD positions in the field of micromechanics-based modelling of ductile failure in high-strength aluminium alloys. These positions are part of a collaborative research project involving the Structural Impact Laboratory (SIMLab) and Nanomechanics research groups, focusing on fundamental fracture mechanisms in age-hardenable aluminium alloys used in modern electric vehicles. Aluminium alloys are critical for lightweight automotive design, offering a unique balance of strength and ductility. However, optimizing these properties remains a challenge due to microstructural features such as precipitate-free zones (PFZs) and grain-boundary precipitates, which can lead to strain localization and void nucleation, ultimately compromising ductility. The project aims to address the competition between transgranular and intergranular fracture in these alloys, a question central to improving crashworthiness and structural integrity in electric vehicle components. PhD position 1 will investigate intergranular fracture mechanisms, emphasizing the role of PFZs and boundary precipitates through advanced experimental characterization and modelling. PhD position 2 will focus on transgranular fracture, utilizing physics-based computational modelling, crystal-plasticity finite-element (CPFE) simulations, and microstructure-resolved models to capture ductile damage initiation and crack evolution in polycrystalline materials. As a PhD candidate, you will develop multiscale modelling frameworks, combine computational and experimental approaches, and contribute to materials design and performance prediction for crash-relevant loading conditions. The research environment is highly international and interdisciplinary, offering opportunities to publish in peer-reviewed journals, present at international conferences, and participate in group activities such as mentoring MSc students. Applicants must have a relevant background in solid mechanics, a master's degree or equivalent, strong academic performance (B or better on NTNU's scale), and fluency in English. Preferred skills include constitutive modelling, non-linear finite element methods, computational micromechanics, experience with aluminium alloys, programming (Python, Fortran), and experimental work. Personal qualities such as motivation, independence, curiosity, and strong communication skills are valued. The positions offer a gross annual salary of NOK 550,800, favourable pension terms, and employee benefits. The employment period is three years, with the requirement to gain admission to the PhD programme in Engineering within three months of the contract start date. NTNU values diversity and encourages applications from candidates of all backgrounds. Applications must be submitted electronically via Jobbnorge.no by March 30, 2026. Required documents include transcripts, diplomas, CV, motivation letter, publications, and referee contact information. For further information, contact Professor Odd Sture Hopperstad ([email protected]) or Associate Professor Lars Edvard Blystad Dæhli ([email protected]).