Job Materials innovation institute M2i - PhD Researcher (~331)

Project title : “Multi-scale modelling of thermo-mechanical and hygroscopic behaviour of oriented semicrystalline polymer foils“

 Project description

Flexible electronics made with organic, or carbon-based, transistors could enable technologies such as low-cost sensors and "electronic paper" displays that are thin and flexible. A plastic foil, to be used as a substrate for flexible electronics, needs to satisfy many requirements such as dimensional stability, thermal stability, and solvent resistance. Due to the continuous miniaturisation of electronic devices, there is a need to understand and to predict the micro-deformations of these materials due to the hygroscopic and thermal stresses in order to control the patterning process at micron scale accuracy.

 The aim of this project is to predict the time-dependent thermo-hygro-mechanical behaviour of semicrystalline thin foils that are used as a substrate for flexible electronics. A multi-scale model based on the underlying microstructure of the uniaxially or biaxially stretched foils and the interactions between the phases that constitute this microstructure will be developed. The multi-scale model will relate the macroscopic response of thin foils, and in particular their viscoelastic behaviour and dimensional response resulting from time-dependent exposure to temperature and solvents, to microstructural features.

 Tasks

As a PhD-researcher "Multi-scale modelling of the thermo-mechanical and hygroscopic behaviour of oriented semicrystalline polymer foils" you will carry out the following activities:

• Perform scientific research.
• Present results on international conferences and publish results in scientific journals.
• Report progress.
• Contribute to the educational program in the department (optional).

We are looking for a candidate with a MSc in Mechanical Engineering and with a strong background in computational mechanics and micromechanics. Knowledge of advanced programming tools and the structure of commercial FE-codes is recommended. Good communication skills in English are required.

When fulfilling a PhD position at M2i, the candidate will be given the status of PhD Researcher. He/she will have employee status and will be eligible for all the employee benefits offered by M2i. The contract is for 4 years. Gross salary for the first year is EUR 2,242 gross per month. This amount increases to EUR 2,587 gross per month in the fourth year. The PhD thesis should be completed at the end of the 4th year term with the M2i. The researcher and the supervisor will draw up a plan for any additional training and supervision that is specifically needed.

http://www.M2i.nl