Ireland – Fully Funded PhD in Mechanics of Metamaterials at University College Dublin

University: University College DublinCountry: IrelandDeadline: 2025-02-08Fields: Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Structural Engineering, Applied Physics, Materials ScienceAre you passionate about pioneering research in advanced materials and eager to contribute to the next generation of mechanical metamaterials? If you are motivated by the challenge of understanding and engineering materials with novel properties that defy conventional mechanics, this fully funded PhD opportunity at University College Dublin could be your gateway to a rewarding research career.About The University Or Research InstituteUniversity College Dublin (UCD), located in the vibrant city of Dublin, Ireland, is one of Europe’s leading research-intensive universities. As Ireland’s largest university, UCD enjoys a global reputation for excellence in teaching, innovation, and research. The School of Civil Engineering at UCD is renowned for its cutting-edge research in structural dynamics, mechanics, and emerging interdisciplinary fields. UCD offers a dynamic and multicultural academic environment, with access to world-class laboratories, collaborative research networks, and a thriving student community. Studying in Ireland provides international students with the benefit of living in a country known for its high quality of life, cultural richness, and welcoming atmosphere. Dublin itself is a hub for technology and innovation, making it an ideal location for ambitious researchers.Research Topic and SignificanceThe focus of this PhD position is on the mechanics of nonlinear and nonreciprocal metamaterials—engineered materials whose mechanical response changes depending on the direction of applied forces. Unlike traditional materials that exhibit symmetric responses, these metamaterials break conventional symmetry, resulting in unique properties such as direction-dependent stiffness and energy transport. The research explores fundamental questions about symmetry breaking, the quantification and measurement of nonreciprocal behavior, the bounds of nonreciprocal properties, and the influence of nonlinearities and topological features on energy transport and isolation. This work is at the forefront of materials science and mechanical engineering, with potential applications in vibration isolation, advanced sensors, and energy harvesting devices. The development of such metamaterials could revolutionize how we design structures and devices that interact with mechanical waves and vibrations, opening new avenues for both scientific discovery and technological innovation.Project DetailsAlso SeeUSA – Fully Funded PhD in Structural Engineering at Utah State UniversityCanada – PhD in Structural Integrity of Aircraft Panels at Queen’s University or Royal…Europe – Postdoc in Structural Performance at Delft University of TechnologyGermany – PhD in Machine Learning and Structural Dynamics at Technical University of BerlinUSA – Fully Funded PhD in Structural Engineering at University of MichiganThis fully funded four-year PhD project is based in the School of Civil Engineering at UCD’s Newstead Building. The successful candidate will be supervised by Dr. Muhammad Gulzari. The research will involve developing rigorous theoretical models to study the mechanics of nonlinear and nonreciprocal mechanical metamaterials. These models will be validated through the design and fabrication of metamaterials, numerical simulations using COMSOL Multiphysics PDE module (or similar tools), and experimental testing. The project will require hands-on experience in both computational modeling and laboratory experimentation, including the use of vibration testing equipment and advanced measurement tools. The interdisciplinary nature of the research will allow the candidate to collaborate across engineering and applied physics domains.Candidate ProfileIdeal applicants for this position will have the following qualifications and attributes:– A BSc and/or MSc in Engineering (Civil, Structural, Mechanical, or related fields)– Strong foundation in theoretical and applied mechanics, structural dynamics, nonlinear systems, and mechanical metamaterials– Experience with numerical modeling tools such as COMSOL Multiphysics, MATLAB, Python, or Mathematica– Familiarity with experimental tools including Laser Doppler Vibrometer, vibration shaker, and related equipment– Excellent communication, academic writing, and presentation skills– Aptitude for multidisciplinary research and effective time management– Ability to work both independently and as part of a collaborative team– Commitment to high-quality research and a drive to contribute meaningfully to the project– Must meet UCD’s minimum English language requirements (see: http://www.ucd.ie/registry/admissions/elr.html)Desirable qualifications include a Master’s degree with a strong research component or exceptional undergraduate research experience.Application ProcessTo apply, candidates must submit a Cover Letter and CV via the specified online form. Applications lacking a Cover Letter will be considered incomplete. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview. Applications submitted by email will not be considered.For further details and the official application form, please refer to the original advertisement:https://euraxess.ec.europa.eu/sites/default/files/jobs/2025-11/Fully%20Funded%20PhD%20scholarship%20in%20Mechanics%20of%20Mechanical%20Metamaterials_2025.pdfApplication Deadline: 2025-02-08ConclusionThis is an exceptional opportunity for ambitious researchers to join a leading university and contribute to transformative advances in the mechanics of metamaterials. If you are ready to take on a challenging and rewarding PhD project in a vibrant international setting, we encourage you to apply. Stay tuned to similar opportunities to advance your academic and professional journey.Want to calculate your PhD admission chances? 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