Mahdi Kioumarsi

The Department of Built Environment at Oslo Metropolitan University (OsloMet) invites applications for a PhD Fellow position focused on evidence-based bridge assessment and maintenance prioritization. This three-year project aims to develop an integrated decision-support framework that leverages inspection images, sensor data, and engineering interpretation to enable transparent, data-driven maintenance decisions for Norway’s aging bridge infrastructure. The research is anchored in the SmartMet Lab and will be conducted in collaboration with structural engineering and data-oriented research groups. The project addresses challenges such as fragmented data flows, inconsistent inspection outcomes, and limited decision support for maintenance planning. The main objective is to create and validate a workflow that integrates multiple types of inspection and monitoring data—including drone-based imagery, LiDAR, and other sensing technologies—into a consistent framework for decision support. Key research activities include structuring and analyzing multi-source bridge-condition assessment data, exploring data analytics and artificial intelligence methods for efficient damage identification, condition assessment, and maintenance prioritization. The results are expected to contribute to more systematic and knowledge-based infrastructure management. The project may also offer a short-term research stay at Iowa State University, and PhD Fellows at OsloMet can apply for funding for extended research stays abroad. Applicants must have a master’s degree in civil engineering, structural engineering, bridge engineering, or a closely related discipline, normally with 120 ECTS credits. If the degree has fewer credits, documentation must be provided to show eligibility for doctoral studies in the country where the degree was obtained. All exams for the master’s degree must be completed by 30 June 2026. Grade requirements include a minimum average grade B on master’s subjects, minimum grade B on the master’s thesis, and minimum average grade C on bachelor’s subjects. Written and oral proficiency in English is required. Admission to the PhD programme in Engineering Science at OsloMet is a prerequisite, and an application for admission must be submitted within three months of the start date. Preferred qualifications include background in structural engineering, bridge engineering, infrastructure management, structural condition assessment, or concrete technology. Experience with sensor data analysis, image databases, programming, modelling, statistical analysis, data analytics, machine learning, or artificial intelligence is desirable. Personal qualities such as motivation, analytical skills, innovation, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively are valued. OsloMet offers exciting job tasks at Norway’s third largest university, participation in research groups, opportunities for academic development, good welfare schemes, sports and cultural offers, and loan and pension arrangements with the Norwegian Public Service Pension Fund. The workplace is located in central Oslo. The salary for the position is 550,800 NOK per year, with a 2% deduction for pension contributions. Candidates may apply for funding for extended research stays abroad. To apply, submit your application through OsloMet’s electronic recruitment system by the deadline of May 4, 2026. Required documents include an application letter, CV, reference letters, certificates/diplomas for bachelor’s and master’s degrees, and transcripts. Foreign education must be pre-approved and documented. If your master’s degree is not completed at the time of application, upload a provisional transcript and an overview of planned courses/exams. Official confirmation of completed exams must be submitted by 30 June 2026, and the official diploma and transcript by 1 October 2026. Incomplete applications will not be considered. OsloMet conducts background checks for relevant positions with candidate consent. For further information, contact Professor Mahdi Kioumarsi ([email protected]) or Head of Research Marit Sandvik ([email protected]). Administrative inquiries can be directed to [email protected].

Oslo Metropolitan University, Norway's third largest university, invites applications for a PhD Fellow in Evidence-Based Bridge Assessment and Maintenance Prioritization. The position is based in the Department of Built Environment, which offers a multidisciplinary research environment focused on sustainable and resilient infrastructure. The project aims to develop an integrated decision-support framework for bridge maintenance, combining inspection images, sensor data, and engineering interpretation to enable transparent, evidence-based decisions. The research addresses the challenges of aging infrastructure, structural degradation, performance loss, and reduced load-bearing capacity. It involves developing new repair materials and methods, including advanced construction materials such as ultra-high performance concrete (UHPC), and supporting sensing systems. Studies will cover sources of structural deterioration, performance requirements for repair materials, and interactions between existing structures and new material solutions. Emerging monitoring technologies and sensor systems will be explored to improve understanding of structural condition before and after repair. The project will contribute to adaptive repair solutions that minimize human intervention and extend the service life of civil infrastructures. Real-world testing and implementation of developed solutions will be conducted via case studies, leveraging the capabilities of SmartMet Lab at OsloMet. The research environment is creative, inspiring, and international, with opportunities for academic development and participation in research groups. Applicants must have a master's degree in civil engineering (structural engineering, materials engineering, construction engineering, or equivalent), normally with 120 ECTS credits. Grade requirements include a minimum average grade B in master's subjects, minimum grade B on the master's thesis, and minimum average grade C in bachelor's subjects. Written and oral proficiency in English is required. Admission to the PhD programme in Engineering Science at OsloMet is a prerequisite, and an application for admission must be submitted within three months of the start date. Background in construction materials and sensing systems, familiarity with strength and durability tests, interest in experimental work, numerical modelling, field investigation, and experience with data processing and analysis are advantageous. Personal qualities such as motivation, communication, collaboration, analytical skills, and innovative thinking are valued. The position offers a salary of 550,800 NOK per year, with a 2% pension contribution deducted. There are opportunities for funding for extended research stays abroad. OsloMet provides a workplace in central Oslo, good welfare schemes, and a wide range of sports and cultural offers. The university is committed to inclusivity and welcomes applications from all qualified candidates, including those with periods outside employment, education, or training. To apply, submit your application through the OsloMet electronic recruitment system by the deadline of 10 August 2026. Required documents include an application letter, CV, reference letters, certificates/diplomas, pre-approval of foreign education, master's thesis, scientific works or links, and a list of publications/presentations. All documents must be in a Scandinavian language or English, with authorized translations if needed. Incomplete applications will not be considered. For more information, contact Head of Research Marit Sandvik ([email protected]) or Professor Mahdi Kioumarsi ([email protected]).