PhD Candidate: Hybrid Physics/AI-Driven Acoustic Sensing for Monitoring of Critical Infrastructures Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna in Italy

Join the Institute of Mechanical Intelligence at Scuola Superiore Sant’Anna in Pisa, Italy, as a PhD candidate working at the intersection of mechanical engineering, physics, and artificial intelligence. This position is offered jointly by the Robotic Mechanisms and Materials (RMM) and Photonic Sensors Integrated Systems laboratories, providing a unique opportunity to contribute to the advancement of Distributed Acoustic Sensing (DAS) technology for real-time monitoring of critical infrastructures.

The research project focuses on transforming optical fibers into continuous arrays of vibration and acoustic sensors, enabling long-range, real-time monitoring of dynamic events such as earthquakes, traffic flow, and structural health in civil infrastructures. The goal is to push the boundaries of DAS diagnostics, exploring new detection capabilities and novel applications, particularly in the railway industry. A key aspect of the project is the integration of data-driven and AI-based approaches to extract meaningful information from complex physical signals.

As a PhD candidate, you will engage in theoretical and numerical analysis of DAS principles, investigate measurement boundary conditions (including acoustic impedance and fiber placement), characterize spectral and temporal signatures of structural events, and develop deep learning algorithms for signal interpretation and anomaly detection. You will be part of a cross-disciplinary team of engineers and physicists, working both theoretically and experimentally on vibro-acoustic phenomena and damage detection algorithms, and validating DAS systems in real industrial scenarios.

The position requires a Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Engineering or Physics, strong analytical and simulation skills, solid knowledge of structural dynamics, computational mechanics (Finite Element Methods), and signal processing. Candidates should be flexible, motivated, and able to work in a multidisciplinary environment, with excellent English proficiency and communication skills.

The PhD program lasts three years and is based at Scuola Superiore Sant’Anna, Pisa. The institution offers a vibrant, innovative research environment and values diversity and inclusion. Funding details are not specified in the announcement.

To apply, send an email expressing your interest to Dr. Giancarlo Santamato, Prof. Marco Fontana, or Prof. Fabrizio Di Pasquale using the provided email addresses. The application deadline for the call for interest is March 2, 2026. A formal call will follow based on received expressions of interest. For more information, visit the institute’s website or the position link.