This postdoctoral research aims at exploring data-driven methodologies to establish the structure-process-property link in the context of fiber reinforced polymer composites used in aircraft structures and topology optimization of such structures to ensure minimal defect and thus maximum performance during service. Currently, the defect formation and their impact on the lifetime can only be predicted via computationally expensive simulations in deterministic settings. In this project we aim to create accurate and efficient constitutive materials models to quantify uncertainties. This will ultimately enable the acceleration of the simulations required for obtaining new structural designs through generative design algorithms based on process-property relations integrating product and manufacturing process optimization.

As a postdoc you will work on finite element modeling based predictions and you will accelerate these simulations by creating probabilistic deep learning models that act as surrogates of simulation.

CAELESTIS main objective is to enable the EU aircraft industry to design and manufacture disruptive aircraft structures and engines with enhanced prediction capacities (product performance and manufacturability), to widen the design space and reduce the uncertainties potentially encountered along the product and engineering lifecycle, which are currently limiting their introduction into service.

Applicants must have the following qualifications:

- strong computational skills and simulation experience (proficiency in Finite Element Analysis is a plus)

- a background in mechanical/aerospace/civil engineering, materials science, physics or a related area

- coding background and willingness to learn about deep learning, graph neural networks and their applications in physical sciences (past experience is a plus)

- an interest in modeling of mechanics and/or manufacturing of composites (past experience is a plus)

- the ability to work well in a collaborative setting

Fixed-term contract: 2 jaar.

Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities. The TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, a discount on health insurance and sport memberships, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged.

For international applicants we offer the Coming to Delft Service and Partner Career Advice to assist you with your relocation. An International Children's Centre offers childcare and there is an international primary school.

Delft University of Technology

Delft University of Technology is built on strong foundations. As creators of the world-famous Dutch waterworks and pioneers in biotech, TU Delft is a top international university combining science, engineering and design. It delivers world class results in education, research and innovation to address challenges in the areas of energy, climate, mobility, health and digital society. For generations, our engineers have proven to be entrepreneurial problem-solvers, both in business and in a social context. At TU Delft we embrace diversity and aim to be as inclusive as possible (see our Code of Conduct). Together, we imagine, invent and create solutions using technology to have a positive impact on a global scale.

Challenge. Change. Impact! 

Faculty Aerospace Engineering

The Faculty of Aerospace Engineering at Delft University of Technology is one of the world’s most highly ranked (and most comprehensive) research, education and innovation communities devoted entirely to aerospace engineering. More than 200 science staff, around 250 PhD candidates and over 2,700 BSc and MSc students apply aerospace engineering disciplines to address the global societal challenges that threaten us today, climate change without doubt being the most important. Our focal subjects: sustainable aerospace, big data and artificial intelligence, bio-inspired engineering and smart instruments and systems. Working at the faculty means working together. With partners in other faculties, knowledge institutes, governments and industry, both aerospace and non-aerospace. Working in field labs and innovation hubs on our university campus and beyond.

Click here to go to the website of the Faculty of Aerospace Engineering.