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

The Institute of Mechanical Intelligence at Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna in Pisa, Italy, invites applications for a postdoctoral research position focused on hybrid physics and AI-driven acoustic sensing for monitoring critical infrastructures. This prestigious opportunity is offered jointly by the Robotic Mechanisms and Materials (RMM) and Photonic Sensors Integrated Systems laboratories, and centers on advancing Distributed Acoustic Sensing (DAS) technology. DAS leverages optical fibers to create continuous arrays of vibration sensors, enabling real-time, long-range monitoring of dynamic events such as earthquakes, seismic activity, traffic flow, and the structural health of civil infrastructures.

The project aims to push the diagnostic boundaries of DAS by integrating data-driven and AI-based approaches to extract meaningful information from complex physical signals. Research activities will include theoretical and numerical analysis of DAS principles, investigation of acoustic impedance and fiber placement, characterization of event signatures, and the development of deep learning algorithms for signal interpretation and anomaly detection. The successful candidate will join a multidisciplinary team of engineers and physicists, contributing to both theoretical and experimental studies, algorithm development, and real-world validation of DAS systems in industrial scenarios.

Applicants should possess a PhD in Engineering (Mechanical, Civil, etc.) or Physics, with strong analytical and simulation skills, and expertise in structural dynamics, computational mechanics (Finite Element Methods), and signal processing. Excellent English communication skills and the ability to work in a collaborative, multidisciplinary environment are essential. Basic Italian is a plus. The position is full-time for two years, starting April 2026, and is based in Pisa, Italy. The Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna offers a vibrant, inclusive research environment.

To apply, send an email expressing your interest and requesting further details to Dr. Giancarlo Santamato, Prof. Marco Fontana, or Prof. Fabrizio Di Pasquale. The deadline for expressions of interest is March 2, 2026. For more information, visit the institutional website or the official position link.