PhD Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) using Nonlinear Vibration Analysis for Metalli

Additive Manufacturing (AM) or 3D Printing (3DP) technology is fundamentally transforming manufacturing processes in various industries. However, the risks associated with less-than-ideal printing conditions pose challenges to ensuring the safe quality of AM parts and affect their strength and consistency.

The main objective of this PhD position is to address these issues by developing an advanced vibrational Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) methodology for quality assurance in metal AM. By going beyond the state-of-the-art, we aim to optimize AM benefits, particularly for complex geometries. Insights gained will enhance the understanding of AM variability, thus enabling a safer application of metal AM technology. During this project, the PhD candidate will 1)establish an ultrasonic vibration testing platform for metal AM parts; 2)develop and perform advanced data-processing techniques (e.g., data-driven modeling with embedded nonlinear dynamics) for vibrational feature extraction; 3)conduct quality diagnostics on the printed parts.

The PhD project is part of the NWO OTP grant “AMVibe:Vibration-Based Non-Destructive Testing for Metal Additive Manufacturing”. The PhD researcher will be supervised by dr. L. (Liangliang) Cheng, and co-supervised by Prof. M. (Maryam) GhandchiTehrani from Dynamics and Vibration Group, and co-supervised by Prof. Y. (Yutao) Pei from Advanced Production Engineering Group, and also work closely with other colleagues from other Top EU and UK universities and industries within this consortium who are working on AM testing to form a strong and complementary team for this highly challenging research topic.

An outstanding opportunity is available for a Ph.D. candidate to join our groundbreaking research in this advanced field. This position provides a unique chance to make significant contributions to the forefront of scientific exploration, while actively shaping the future of dynamic systems theory.

Only candidates with a Master’s degree should apply. The PhD researcher should have a strong interest in experimental testing, data processing, and machine learning.

Organization
The University of Groningen is a research university with a global outlook, deeply rooted in Groningen, City of Talent. Quality has been our top priority for over four hundred years, and with success: the University is currently in or around the top 100 on several influential ranking lists.

The Faculty of Science and Engineering (FSE) is the largest faculty within the University. We offer first-rate education and research in a wide range of science and engineering subject areas, from mathematics, astronomy and mechanical engineering, to interdisciplinary fields such as artificial intelligence, pharmacy and nanoscience. Our community has an open and informal character with students and staff from around the world.

- A recognized institution has granted a Master's degree in Engineering, specializing in mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, computer science, mathematics, or a related field, along with a notable academic track record.
- Proficiency in theoretical aspects of vibration testing and control, as well as the processing and analysis of vibration signals, with an added advantage of familiarity with nonlinear dynamics.
- Very strong hands-on practical expertise in utilizing data acquisition instruments and transducers such as NI modules, Siemens Scadas, modal shaker, accelerometers, etc.
- Proficient programming skills in Matlab/Python/LabVIEW, with an added advantage of specific experience in popular deep learning frameworks like PyTorch and TensorFlow.
- Demonstrated capability in independent research, exemplified by exceptional performance in the MSc thesis.
- Excellent proficiency in both spoken and written English, and knowledge of spoken Dutch would be advantageous for this purpose.
- Possession of a critical mindset and the ability to think analytically.

We offer you in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities

- A salary of € 2,901 gross per month in the first year, up to a maximum of € 3,707 gross per month in the fourth and final year, based on a full-time position (1.0 FTE).
- A holiday allowance of 8% gross annual income and an 8.3% year-end bonus.
- A position for four years; you will get a temporary position of one year with the option of renewal for another three years; prolongation of the contract is contingent on sufficient progress in the first year to indicate that a successful completion of the PhD thesis within the next three years is to be expected.
- A university PhD training programme is part of the agreement and the successful candidates will be enrolled in the Graduate School of Science and Engineering.