We are looking for a Ph.D. student who will model vibrational effects in structures from nearby blasting activities such as tunnel constructions. The aim is to improve our understanding of the connection between ground vibrations and damages to structures. By using numerical modelling in conjunction with experimental data, more reliable predictions are sought that leads to more efficient blasting processes that enables temporal, economic and environmental savings.
Project description
Blasting in rock induces ground vibrations, which in turn may cause structural damage to nearby buildings. The Swedish Standard states guidelines for vibration values that are permitted to avoid such damages. These guidelines are sometimes considered obsolete and criticisms have been raised concerning their validity. Thus, there is a desire to update these standards based on more modern findings. This project aims to provide a deeper physical understanding of the connection between ground vibrations and damage to structures. Eventually, the project is expected to contribute to a revision of the current guidelines in Swedish Standard regarding blast-induced vibrations in buildings.
This PhD project mainly aims at developing numerical models that describe the impact on buildings from ground vibrations. This includes studying and evaluating the effects from various parameters (material, geometry, amplitude, frequency, etc). The modeling is mainly based on finite element models (FEM). These calculations will be performed in both 2D and 3D, and are primarily based on linear elastic models. Both time and frequency analysis are to be studied. Calculations will include structural effects at both a “global” level (eigenfrequencies, mode shapes) and a “local” level (strains). The models are calibrated and compared primarily with existing experimental blast data on simple test buildings in Norway as well as from full-scale tests in Sweden, France and the USA. Additional experimental tests are possible during the course of the project based on results obtained and needs identified from the project.
Information about the division and the department
The research is part of a joint collaboration in the applied mechanics field comprising the division of Dynamics at the department of Mechanics and Maritime Sciences (M2), and the division of Structural Engineering at the Department of Architecture and Civil Engineering (ACE). These divisions have long time expertise in supplementary areas relevant to the project, including modelling of wave propagation effects from blasting activities (M2 Dynamics) and its structural impact on nearby buildings (ACE Structural Engineering). In addition, the project also involves Luleå University of Technology (LTU) and Norwegian Geotechnical Institute (NGI). These partners participate with expertise linked to rock engineering (LTU) and experimental measurements (NGI).
Expertise from industry is included through a reference group consisting of representatives from NCC, Skanska, Trafikverket and others. This ensure societal relevance for the project, as well as providing an important network academy-industry. The project is financed by two national foundations: the Rock Engineering Research Foundation (BeFo) and the Development Fund of the Swedish Construction Industry (SBUF).
Major responsibilities
Your major responsibility will be to carry out the PhD project within solid dynamics. This includes developing scientific concepts and communicating research results both verbally and in writing. This includes presenting at international conferences (scientific, industrial) and publishing in scientific journals and reports. You will have the opportunity to influence the details of the research towards the needs of the project, developing theoretical and numerical modelling based on experimental results. As a doctoral student, you will participate in doctoral courses following the syllabus of the Graduate School in Solid and Structural Mechanics.
Read more about doctoral studies at Chalmers here.
Qualifications
The successful applicant has a good knowledge of solid mechanics and enjoys numerical modelling. A suitable background is a Master of Science in Mechanical or Civil Engineering or an equivalent degree. Good knowledge in finite element analysis of structures is required, and a specialization in structural dynamics or concrete structures is meritorious. Also good if you have some experience of data processing and commercial finite element software, e.g. COMSOL Multiphysics.
We will evaluate all candidates after the deadline. We will not pre-review applications sent by email, thus please ensure that you have provided all required information through the online application system!
To qualify as a PhD student, you must have a master’s level degree corresponding to at least 240 higher education credits in a relevant field.
The position requires sound verbal and written communication skills in English. If Swedish is not your native language, Chalmers offers Swedish courses.
Contract terms
The position is a full-time temporary employment limited to 4.5-5 years including teaching or other departmental duties corresponding to 10-20% of working hours. You will be employed by Chalmers and will receive a salary according to current salary agreements.
We offer
Chalmers offers a cultivating and inspiring working environment in the coastal city of Gothenburg.
Read more about working at Chalmers and our benefits for employees.
Chalmers aims to actively improve our gender balance. We work broadly with equality projects, for example the GENIE Initiative on gender equality for excellence. Equality and diversity are substantial foundations in all activities at Chalmers.
Application procedure
The application should be marked with reference number 20240080 and written in English. The application should be sent electronically and be attached as PDF-files, as below. Maximum size for each file is 40 MB. Please note that the system does not support Zip files.
CV: (Please name the document: CV, Family name, reference number)
• CV
• Other, for example previous employments or leadership qualifications and positions of trust.
• Two references that we can contact.
Personal letter: (Please name the document as: Personal letter, Family name, ref.number)
1-3 pages where you:
• Introduce yourself
• Describe your previous experience of relevance for the position (e.g. education, thesis work and, if applicable, any other research activities)
• Describe your future goals and future research focus
Other documents:
• Copies of bachelor and/or master’s thesis.
• Attested copies and transcripts of completed education, grades and other certificates, e.g. TOEFL test results.
Use the button at the foot of the page to reach the application form.
Please note: The applicant is responsible for ensuring that the application is complete. Incomplete applications and applications sent by email will not be considered.
For questions, please contact:
Division head Peter Folkow, Dynamics,
peter.folkow@chalmers.se
Examiner Håkan Johansson, Dynamics,
hakan.johansson@chalmers.se
*** Chalmers declines to consider all offers of further announcement publishing or other types of support for the recruiting process in connection with this position. ***
Chalmers University of Technology conducts research and education in engineering sciences, architecture, technology-related mathematical sciences, natural and nautical sciences, working in close collaboration with industry and society. The strategy for scientific excellence focuses on our six Areas of Advance; Energy, Health Engineering, Information and Communication Technology, Materials Science, Production and Transport. The aim is to make an active contribution to a sustainable future using the basic sciences as a foundation and innovation and entrepreneurship as the central driving forces. Chalmers has around 11,000 students and 3,000 employees. New knowledge and improved technology have characterised Chalmers since its foundation in 1829, completely in accordance with the will of William Chalmers and his motto: Avancez!
Deadline: 2024-04-01 at 23:59
Unit: Engineering/it
Read the job description at the university homepage or apply.