PhD Positions in Simulation of Thermoplastic: The University of Twente (UT) invites ambitious and highly motivated candidates to apply for four full-time PhD positions focused on cutting-edge research in the field of thermoplastic composites manufacturing for aerospace applications. These positions offer an excellent opportunity to contribute to sustainable aviation technologies while working in a stimulating research environment with state-of-the-art facilities.
PhD Positions in Simulation of Thermoplastic Composites Manufacturing for Aerospace Applications
Designation
PhD Positions (Full-time, 4 years)
Details at a Glance
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| University/Institution | University of Twente |
| Designation | PhD Researcher |
| Location | Enschede, Netherlands |
| Salary | €3,059 – €3,881 (gross/month, full-time) |
| Work Hours | 38–40 hours/week |
| Application Deadline | September 25, 2025 |
| Interview Dates | October 7, 2025 and October 10, 2025 |
| Funding Period | 4 years |
Research Areas
The PhD program is structured into the following specific research projects:
- Press Forming of Thermoplastic Composites
- Topic 1: Ply and blank bending during hot press forming.
- Topic 2: Ply/ply and tool/ply friction during hot press forming.
- Laser-Assisted Automated Fiber Placement (LAFP)
- Topic 3: High-fidelity simulation of the LAFP process.
- Induction Welding
- Topic 4: Efficient simulation of the induction welding process.
Location
University of Twente, Enschede, Netherlands, known for its green campus and international scientific community.
Eligibility/Qualification
To be eligible for these PhD positions, candidates should meet the following criteria:
- Academic Background: Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Applied Mathematics, or related fields.
- Skills & Experience:
- Experimental and theoretical knowledge in thermoplastic polymers and fiber-reinforced composites.
- Familiarity with polymer rheology and the finite element method.
- Proficiency in numerical programming skills using Python, MATLAB, or Julia.
- Strong mathematical and numerical modeling capabilities (required for specific projects).
- Soft Skills: Teamwork, independent research, and a positive attitude.
- Language Proficiency: Good command of English (TOEFL > 90 or IELTS > 6.5).
Description
The PhD positions focus on developing innovative manufacturing technologies for aerospace thermoplastic composites. Below is a summary of the specific projects:
- Ply and Blank Bending During Hot Press Forming
- Focus: Developing constitutive models and conducting rheological experiments to study the bending behavior of molten reinforced thermoplastic plies.
- Skills: Polymer rheology, experimental work, and programming (Python/Matlab).
- Ply/Ply and Tool/Ply Friction During Hot Press Forming
- Focus: Experimentally characterizing friction behavior and enhancing existing computational models to prevent defects.
- Skills: Developing constitutive models, experimental work, and programming.
- High-Fidelity Simulation of Laser-Assisted Fiber Placement (LAFP)
- Focus: Multiscale simulation of LAFP manufacturing processes, including optical and thermal modeling for large composite structures.
- Skills: Numerical methods development, high-performance computing, and knowledge of simulation tools.
- Efficient Simulation of Induction Welding
- Focus: Developing numerical algorithms for the electromagnetic and heat transfer processes during composite part fusion.
- Skills: Electromagnetic modeling, numerical methods for 3D problems, and programming (Python/Julia/Matlab).
How to Apply
To apply for these positions, candidates must:
- Submit an online application through the University of Twente’s portal using the “Apply Now” button.
- Include the following documents:
- CV
- Motivation Letter
- Optional: List of Publications (if available)
- Application review will be completed within two weeks after the deadline.
For more details, contact Dr. Wouter Grouve at w.j.b.grouve@utwente.nl or call +31 53 489 8018.
Last Date for Application
Applications must be submitted before September 25, 2025.
This program offers an exciting opportunity to join a research-intensive environment and contribute to the advancement of aerospace composites technology. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this transformative journey in sustainable aviation!
