Statistical Physics Of Creep Rupture Of Structural Materials

During this PhD project, the student will share his/her time between Grenoble (1.5 year) and Aalto (1.5 year). In both cases, he/she will first develop the experimental protocol with the different controlling and monitoring tools (DIC, AE, acoustic tomography,..) as well as the experimental program, then will perform the mechanical experiments. He/she will analyze these original datasets (on wood and concrete) in light of the theoretical developments that will be explored during this project. He/she will participate in these theoretical developments in close connection with the supervisors and the members of the two groups. To further constrain, test and validate such an emerging theoretical framework, he/she will also run numerical simulations using existing models (fiber-bundles and progressive damage models with thermal activation implemented). Numerical developments will be therefore limited, but data mining significant.

Overall, during his/her PhD, the student will acquire a broad spectrum of skills and expertise in experimental methods, numerical modelling, data mining, and theoretical analysis in mechanics and statistical physics.

The student will spend half of the PhD in Aalto (18 months), and half in Grenoble (18 months), with several travels between Finland and France.

Funding category: Contrat doctoral

PHD Country: France

The PhD candidate will hold a Master degree in Statistical or Applied Physics, on Material Science, or Mechanical Engineering. Owing to the nature of the proposed research, an experience and/or a taste for experimental physics/mechanics is important. English is mandatory. Experience of classical computing languages (Python, Matlab,..) is expected, as well as good writing skills.

Master in Statistical or Applied Physics, Material Science, or Mechanical Engineering