PhD Research Studentships
Simulation-driven design and fabrication of soft bioinspired materials
| Supervisor: | Marco PENSALFINI |
| Apply by: | 29 January 2025 |
| Start in: | September (Semester 1) |
Description
A studentship in simulation-driven design and fabrication of soft bioinspired materials with envisioned start date in September 2025 is available in Dr. Pensalfini’s group at Queen Mary University of London.
While biomimetic strategies have generally proven successful towards developing structural materials with unprecedented combinations of highly desirable properties, such as high toughness and stiffness, they have remained rather understudied in soft materials. This is quite surprising, given their common use in direct contact with soft biological tissues, as in biomedical dressings, hydrogels, or garments.
This project aims to advance the engineering, science and technology of largely deformable structures through physics-based and data-driven multiscale models of soft bioinspired materials. The models will be iteratively refined and thoroughly validated in a two-way interaction with experimental investigations and leveraging several state-of-the-art manufacturing techniques.
Candidate specification:
The ideal candidate will have relevant experience in some or all of the following areas:
- Physics-based or data-driven multiscale computational modelling in the field of structural mechanics
- Mechanical characterization and modelling of largely deformable materials
- Formulation and solution of parameter identification or inverse design problems
- Bottom-up material design and fabrication
- Proficiency in programming languages such as Python, MATLAB, and/or C/C++
- Proficiency in commercial finite element packages, e.g. Abaqus FEA
The successful candidate will have the opportunity to fine tune the project based on individual interests and skills.
About the Research Group:
We are broadly interested in the interplay of multiscale mechanics and tissue regulation, with a specific focus on largely deformable materials relying on fibre networks, such as several biological tissues, polymers, and textiles. A core area of interest directly relevant to this PhD project is the development of computational models with predictive or interpretative function, and the establishment of two-way links with corresponding experiments. We are committed to offering an inclusive and collaborative research and learning environment that focuses on the personal development of all members. Informal enquiries about potential applications are most welcome and shall be directed to Dr. Pensalfini (contact details provided below).
Funding
Funded by: China Scholarship CouncilCandidate will need to secure a CSC scholarship.
Under the scheme, Queen Mary will provide scholarships to cover all tuition fees, whilst the CSC will provide living expenses and one return flight ticket to successful applicants.
Eligibility
- The minimum requirement for this studentship opportunity is a good honours degree (minimum 2(i) honours or equivalent) or MSc/MRes in a relevant discipline.
- If English is not your first language, you will require a valid English certificate equivalent to IELTS 6.5+ overall with a minimum score of minimum score of 6.0 in each of Writing, Listening, Reading and Speaking).
- Candidates are expected to start in September (Semester 1).
Contact
For informal enquiries about this opportunity, please contact Marco PENSALFINI.
Apply
Start an application for this studentship and for entry onto the PhD Mechanical Engineering full-time programme (Semester 1 / September start):
Please be sure to quote the reference "SEMS-PHD-635" to associate your application with this studentship opportunity.
| Related website: | https://www.sems.qmul.ac.uk/staff/m.pensalfini |
| Keywords: | Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Biomedical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Solid Mechanics, Structural Mechanics, Polymers, Textiles, Computational Mathematics, Mathematical Modelling |