Postdoc position in Polymeric Composite Materials, Electrically heated composite repairs Department of Engineering Sciences and Mathematics
Ref 1116-2022
Luleå University of Technology experiences rapid growth with world-leading expertise within several research domains. We shape the future through innovative education and groundbreaking research results and drawing on our location in the Arctic region, we create global societal benefit. Our scientific and artistic research and education are carried out in close collaboration with international, national and regional companies, public actors and leading universities. Luleå University of Technology has an annual turnover of SEK 1.8 billion. Today, we have 1,770 staff and 17,200 students.
In the coming years, multi-billion investments will be made in large projects in Northern Sweden to create a fossil-free society both nationally and globally. Luleå University of Technology is involved in several of these cutting-edge research projects and in the societal transformation that they entail. We offer a broad range of courses and study programmes to match the skills in demand. We hope that you will help us to build the sustainable companies and societies of the future.
The subject of Polymeric Composite Materials within Division of Materials Science, Department of Engineering Sciences and Mathematics at Luleå University of Technology, Sweden, has a postdoctoral researcher position available for research on ice-build up, wear and thermal stresses in resistive heated structural composite patch wind turbine blade repairs. In-field vacuum infusion is a composite repair methodology that is gaining importance with the widespread expansion of wind power generators. Developments with respect to understanding how materials and manufacturing contributes to the performance is needed in order to enhance the confidence of the repairs.
Subject description
Polymeric Composite Materials is a research area comprising the study of processes and mechanisms that influence the performance and properties of fiber reinforced composites, as well as the knowhow regarding their manufacturing techniques.
Within the subject of Polymeric Composite Materials, research on new fiber reinforced materials, manufacturing and modelling of fiber reinforced composite properties is conducted. The research group is continuously involved in national and international projects.
Project description
With the project there is an ambition to contribute to extended service life of wind turbine blades through optimization of composite patch repairs by in-field vacuum infusion towards uniformity in quality, prevention of precipitation ice-build up, wear resistance and strength. Anticipated activities in the project includes: literature and in-field inventory of robust composite repair strategies adopted for use in cold climates; development of laboratory repair routines that simulate essential features of an in-field repair; perform experimental characterisation and modelling of structural performance, wear, thermal and ice-build up properties; and establish relationships between precipitation ice build-up and patch repair method.
The position receives financial support via the strategic program Creaternity https://www.ltu.se/research/areas-of-excellence/creaternity/Om-CREATERNITY?l=en at Luleå University of Technology. A cross-disciplinary collaboration involving aspects like polymer composite materials, tribology of polymers and ice-precipitation growth is expected. A reference group with senior researchers from the relevant subjects and industry will be established to support the cross-disciplinary efforts.
Duties
The duties of postdoctoral fellows primarily comprise research. Teaching and other department duties may be added up to maximum 20 % of fulltime.
Qualifications
We are looking for a person with PhD degree on fibre reinforced composite materials or equivalent and has an interest in combining practical manufacturing, thorough experimental characterisation with modelling of physical properties. Experience in vacuum infusion manufacturing, testing of properties such as mechanical, wear, thermal etc as well as structural analysis and modelling of thermo-mechanical properties of composites are important and beneficial for the advertised position. Expertise in numerical and experimental design of adhesive joints and non-destructive characterization methods (e.g. AE, DIC, thermography) is also appreciated. Some of the work may be conducted in field meaning that a driver’s license is also beneficial.
Good skills in oral and written communication in English is required. You should be able to work in group, can take your own initiative and have a good social competence.
A doctoral degree awarded no more than three years before the application deadline provides a useful qualification. Candidates who have been awarded a doctoral degree at an earlier date may also be considered if there are special grounds, for example, different types of statutory leave of absence.
Further information
Full-time fixed term employment for two years with placement in Luleå. Starting as soon as possible.
For further information about the position, please contact Patrik Fernberg, +46 920 492883, patrik.fernberg@ltu.se or Roberts Joffe, +46 920 491940, roberts.joffe@ltu.se
Union representatives: SACO-S Kjell Johansson, +46 920-49 1529 kjell.johansson@ltu.se or OFR-S Lars Frisk, +46 920-49 1792 lars.frisk@ltu.se
In case of different interpretations of the English and Swedish versions of this announcement, the Swedish version takes precedence.
Application
We prefer that you apply for this position by clicking on the apply button below. The application should include a CV, personal letter and copies of verified diplomas from high school and universities. Mark your application with the reference number below. Your application, including diplomas, must be written in English or Swedish.
Reference number: 1116-2022
Closing date for applications: April 18, 2022