PhD Fellowship in Resilient Bridge Infrastructures

The University of Stavanger is offering a PhD Fellowship in Resilient Bridge Infrastructures within the Faculty of Science and Technology, Department of Mechanical and Structural Engineering and Materials Science. This position is available from July 2026 and provides an excellent opportunity for academic development through a structured PhD program leading to a doctoral degree. The successful candidate will join a vibrant research environment, participate in national and international collaborations, and benefit from career guidance throughout their doctoral education. The research project focuses on the safety and resilience of bridges exposed to climate change-induced hazards such as flooding, scour, and debris impacts. The aim is to develop advanced numerical models and machine learning tools to predict loads, assess structural responses, and identify damage under extreme conditions. By integrating computational simulations with data-driven approaches, the project seeks to deliver practical models for hazard quantification and innovative methods for damage identification, ultimately enhancing the safety and resilience of transportation infrastructure systems. Applicants should hold a five-year master degree in civil and structural engineering or marine technology, or possess equivalent qualifications. Both the master’s thesis grade and the weighted average grade of the master’s degree must be equivalent to or better than a B grade. Candidates with education from institutions using different grading scales must provide a confirmed conversion scale and a Diploma Supplement. Additional requirements include a strong background in structural and fluid dynamics, experience with finite element analysis, proficiency in Python or similar programming languages, motivation for research, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively. Good command of oral and written English is essential, with international applicants required to provide valid English proficiency test scores unless exempt. The position offers a competitive salary of NOK 550,800 gross per year, with salary development according to seniority. Membership in the Norwegian Public Service Pension Fund is automatic, providing favorable insurance and retirement benefits. Additional benefits include free Norwegian language courses, access to digital mental health services, discounted public transport, guaranteed nursery places, and a relocation program. The University of Stavanger is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from candidates of all backgrounds and prioritizing female applicants in cases of equal qualifications. To apply, candidates should submit their application via the Jobbnorge portal, including an application letter detailing research interests and motivation, CV, references, certificates/diplomas, Diploma Supplement, conversion scale, documentation of English competence, and relevant publications. All documentation must be in a Scandinavian language or English and compressed if exceeding 100 MB. Applications are evaluated based on information available at the application deadline, and shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews. The appointee will be based at the University of Stavanger and must reside locally to participate fully in the academic community. The University of Stavanger is a dynamic institution with high ambitions, a strong international profile, and a commitment to green and sustainable change. The Faculty of Science and Technology maintains close ties with research institutions and industry, offering degree programs at all levels and fostering collaboration with universities worldwide. The Department of Mechanical and Structural Engineering and Materials Science is internationally recognized for its research in offshore technology, marine and subsea technology, offshore wind, industrial technology, civil and structural engineering, mechanical engineering, and materials engineering. For further information, contact Associate Professor Yanyan Sha ([email protected]) or HR Advisor Rosa Cam Andrade ([email protected]). More details and the application portal are available at Jobbnorge and University of Stavanger .