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PhD Student Opportunities in Computational Structural Mechanics

Beginning January, Summer, or Fall 2021

Two PhD students are sought to contribute to a research program that integrates numerical methods, supercomputing, structural mechanics, and damage modeling. The specific project is sponsored by the Office of Naval Research (ONR) and entails the development of multi-scale, multi-physics models and methodology to simulate the behavior and damage tolerance of bi-material parts bonded using adhesive joining. Students will formulate peridynamics and finite element models to investigate the effects of microstructural features due to installation processes on macroscale structural reliability. This project supports a NATO initiative and advances structural design using multiple material types to provide a novel solution for rapid and affordable construction of new vehicles and repair of aging vehicles. Students will perform analysis on the Department of Defense (DOD) high performance computing system. Funding for these positions includes tuition, health insurance,
and a stipend.

Prospective students should have a degree in engineering (or a related field) and an interest in numerical methods, programming, structural mechanics, peridynamics, and finite element analysis.

Contact: Associate Professor Stephanie TerMaath (stermaat@utk.edu)
For more information: https://volmechutk.weebly.com/