PhD Position: Bond Performance: Loughborough University invites applications for a fully-funded PhD position in Architecture, Building, and Civil Engineering. The project, focusing on bond performance between self-healing overlays and ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC) substrate, aims to extend the service life of concrete structures by optimizing the use of self-healing agents. The project involves empirical engineering work, exploring deposition methods and conditions, and is supervised by Dr. Ana Blanco and Prof. Sergio Cavalaro.
PhD Position: Bond Performance in Self-healing Overlays and UHPC Substrate
Designation: PhD Candidate
Research Area: Bond Performance in Self-healing Overlays and UHPC Substrate
Location: Loughborough University, Loughborough, East Midlands, UK
Eligibility/Qualification:
- 2:1 or higher undergraduate degree in Civil Engineering MEng or MSc in Structural Engineering or Materials.
- Experience working with advanced fibre-reinforced cementitious composites, ideally UHPC, in academia or industry.
- Knowledge of mechanical properties, particularly interlayer bonding.
- Experience in material and/or structural testing or numerical modeling.
Job Description:
- Investigate bond performance between thin layers of self-healing engineered cementitious composites (ECC) and UHPC substrate.
- Explore different deposition methods (casting, spraying, 3D printing) and deposition times to consider potential cold joints.
- Conduct practical empirical engineering work in the School of Architecture, Building and Civil Engineering laboratory at Loughborough University and partner facilities.
Fees for 2023-24:
- UK: Fully funded
- International: Fully funded
Full-time: 3 years
Start Date: 1 April 2024, 1 July 2024
Application Deadline: 22 February 2024
Project Reference: ABCE-NIA-24
How to Apply:
- Apply online through the application portal.
- Submit a single PDF file including:
- Academic CV.
- Brief summary of background, research experience, and skills.
- Statement on how you would contribute to the project.
- Contact information for three references (letters not required at this stage).
Supervisors:
- Primary supervisor: Dr. Ana Blanco
- Secondary supervisor: Prof. Sergio Cavalaro
Entry Requirements: Candidates with a Civil Engineering MEng degree or MSc in Structural Engineering or Materials are welcome to apply.
Note: Diversity and inclusion are valued principles at Loughborough University. Candidates from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply.
