PhD Candidate in Fatigue of Francis Turbine Runners under Flexible Operation Norwegian University of Science and Technology in Norway

The Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) invites applications for a fully funded PhD position focused on the fatigue of Francis turbine runners under flexible operation. This research opportunity is part of the Norwegian Research Centre for Renewal of Hydropower Technology (RenewHydro), a collaborative initiative involving NTNU, the Research Council of Norway, and leading hydropower producers and technology suppliers.

The project addresses the challenges posed by flexible operation of hydropower plants, which leads to complex variable-amplitude loading histories in Francis turbine runners. These loading conditions, including start–stop cycles, rapid load changes, dwell periods, and mixed stress sequences, significantly influence fatigue damage development in critical blade regions. The PhD candidate will establish a mechanistic understanding of how operational loading drives fatigue initiation, cumulative damage, and crack evolution in both modern and vintage runner steels.

Research activities will combine systematic experimental fatigue testing under representative loading with local fatigue modelling and fracture-mechanics-based crack growth analysis. The candidate will investigate load-sequence effects, small-crack behaviour, and the transition from stable to critical crack growth. Comparative testing of contemporary and vintage materials will assess the influence of ageing, microstructural variability, and service history. A purpose-designed model specimen will be developed to reproduce multiaxial stress states relevant for runner blades, bridging material-level testing and component-level behaviour. The resulting material parameters and modelling approaches will be integrated into a turbine-scale simulation framework developed in a parallel PhD project within RenewHydro.

The position offers a gross annual salary of NOK 550,800 for three years, with a 2% statutory contribution to the State Pension Fund. Additional benefits include career guidance, mentoring, working capital for project implementation, and access to employee benefits such as free Norwegian language training at a basic level. The working environment is open, inclusive, and international, with a strong commitment to diversity and equality.

Applicants must hold a relevant Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Material Engineering, Solid Mechanics, or equivalent, corresponding to a five-year Norwegian course with 120 credits at master's level. Master students may apply if the degree is completed before starting. A strong academic background is required, with an average grade of B or better on NTNU's grading scale or equivalent. Candidates with weaker grades may be considered if they can document particular suitability for PhD education. Required background includes mechanics of materials, solid mechanics, fatigue and fracture mechanics, and documented strong background in experimental mechanics and numerical simulations (preferably finite element analysis). Excellent written and oral English skills are required. Preferred criteria include experience in mechanical testing, fatigue and fracture mechanics, use of finite element codes (ABAQUS, ANSYS), knowledge of turbomachinery principles, and proficiency in Norwegian/Scandinavian languages. Personal qualities such as independence, structured work, communication, motivation, and adaptability are emphasized.

To apply, submit your application and all required attachments electronically via Jobbnorge.no by the deadline of 6th April 2026. Required documents include transcripts, diplomas, CV, master's thesis, project outline, motivation letter, publications, certificates, and contact information for three referees. Documentation must be in Norwegian, a Scandinavian language, or English. If invited to interview, bring certified copies of certificates and diplomas.

NTNU is located in Trondheim, Norway, a modern European city known for its rich cultural scene, excellent welfare system, and opportunities for education and family life. The university is committed to creating knowledge for a better world and offers a stimulating environment for research and professional development.