Phononic crystals (PnCs) are a new class of (meta)materials whose 3-D structure that can be designed to prevent mechanical waves from propagating—a phenomenon known as a bandgap. PnCs are expected to have a significant contribution to our societal development. They open up an exciting world of applications in wireless communications, energy harvesting, vibrationless environments for high-precision mechanical systems, sound protection devices, and even earthquake shielding. PnCs have a complex structure, and the design of these structures to reach ultimate performance for specific applications is not yet possible. The project aims to establish design methods for PnCs, and apply such methods to industrially relevant cases.
As a PhD candidate, your tasks include:
• Creating a mathematical model for designing PnC-based structures in order to filter a range of frequencies (bandgap). Due to their complexity, one way to design these materials
is using adequate numerical tools (finite element analysis coupled to optimisation).
• Validating the numerical designs, for which you will manufacture prototypes using suitable in-lab manufacturing techniques. Design and implementation of an experimental setup required for validation is part of this activity.
• Research and develop PnC-based components from an industrial application perspective, as well as manufacturing methods for these components.
• Realisation of industry-oriented demonstrators, including performance validation.
• Writing a PhD dissertation, publishing in renowned journals, and presenting at international conferences.

You should have the following qualifications:
• A strong background in mechanics and wave physics;
• MSc university degree in physics or engineering (mechanical, aerospace, civil), or a related area;
• Ability to design and carry out experimental work;
• High motivation for teamwork and excellent communication skills;
• Experience with numerical modelling.

Fixed-term contract: 4 years.

The TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, a discount for health insurance and sport memberships, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged. An International Children’s Centre offers childcare and an international primary school. Dual Career Services offers support to accompanying partners. Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities.
As a PhD candidate you will be enrolled in the TU Delft Graduate School. The TU Delft Graduate School provides an inspiring research environment; an excellent team of supervisors, academic staff and a mentor; and a Doctoral Education Programme aimed at developing your transferable, discipline-related and research skills. Please visit graduateschool.tudelft.nl/ for more information.
TU Delft sets specific standards for the English competency of the teaching staff. TU Delft offers training to improve English competency.

For more information about this position, please contact Dr. Alejandro M. Aragón, phone: +31 (0)15 278 22 67, e-mail: a.m.aragon@tudelft.nl. For information about the application procedure, you may contact Willeke Zeestraten, application-3mE@tudelft.nl. To apply, please e-mail a detailed CV along with a letter of application by 15 March 2018 to: application-3mE@tudelft.nl and a.m.aragon@tudelft.nl.
When applying for this position, please refer to vacancy number 3ME18-07.

Delft University of Technology

Delft University of Technology (the TU Delft) is a multifaceted institution offering education and carrying out research in the technical sciences at an internationally recognised level. Education, research and design are strongly oriented towards applicability. The TU Delft develops technologies for future generations, focusing on sustainability, safety and economic vitality. At the TU Delft you will work in an environment where technical sciences and society converge. The TU Delft comprises eight faculties, unique laboratories, research institutes and schools.

http://www.tudelft.nl

Faculty Mechanical, Maritime and Materials Engineering - Department of Precision and Microsystems Engineering (PME)

The 3mE Faculty trains committed engineering students, PhD candidates and post-doctoral researchers in groundbreaking scientific research in the fields of mechanical, maritime and materials engineering. 3mE is the epitome of a dynamic, innovative faculty, with a European scope that contributes demonstrable economic and social benefits.

The Department of Precision and Microsystems Engineering (PME) focuses on developing knowledge and methods for innovative, high-precision devices and systems, such as precision equipment and scientific instrumentation for the high-tech industry. Increasing miniaturisation and function density, and improving precision, speed and reliability are the key topics in our work. Our approach is multidisciplinary, fundamental, and inspired by industry needs. 

This project initiated within the Nano Engineering Research Initiative (NERI), which brings together PME’s various disciplines to collaborate with industry and other academia to work on long-term, larger, overarching challenges in order to bring nanoscience to real industrial applications. As such, this project is a cooperation with leading industrial companies, active in the field of cutting-edge technology for high-precision sensing.

https://www.tudelft.nl/en/3me