Postdoctoral Fellow

The Division of Physical Sciences and Engineering at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Saudi Arabia, invites applications for Postdoctoral fellow in Mechanical Engineering at the Mechanics of Composites for ENERCOMP.

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Field of study:

A Postdoctoral opening is available in the area of Insitu Multiphysics Characterization of Composites in harsh environment.

This postdoctoral position focuses on the in-situ multiphysics characterization of composite materials operating in harsh environments. The research aims to integrate advanced sensing, electrical, thermal, and mechanical diagnostics to capture aging, degradation, and damage evolution under realistic service conditions. Emphasis is placed on non-destructive, real-time monitoring approaches applicable to polymer matrix composites. The outcomes will support the development of robust condition-monitoring strategies for energy, mobility, and infrastructure applications.

The project aims to contribute to this global effort by solving essential challenges faced by the oil and gas industry, where the knowledge of correlation between microstructural and mechanical properties of polymer composites after aging is very limited.

The project will be organized around 3 main activities:

·         Insitu characterization of microstructural changes in polymer composites during aging.

·         Inistu characterization of mechanical and fracture performance of polymer composites.

Correlation between microstructure and mechanical changes allowing defining the root cause of mechanical degradation

The work will be developed in the context of an industrial consortium “ENERCOMP”, which is a joint consortium between KAUST and Aramco to serve the development of the energy sector.

Qualifications:

The successful candidate must hold a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering, Material Science or other relevant discipline. He/She must have a strong background in one or more of the following fields: experimental solid mechanics of thermoplastic composites, mechanical testing, fracture, damage mechanics and polymeric materials. The candidate should also have a good knowledge of simulation on Abaqus Standard; an experience in testing at extreme conditions, high pressure and temperatures is a plus. For any appointment at MCEM, an in-depth knowledge of theoretical mechanics is a firm requirement. 

A high level of self-motivation, strong publication record and a good command of oral and written English, the ability to work in a team, as well as alone and good organizational skills are essential. 

Other dutties:

The Postdoctoral fellow will be actively engaged in student mentoring (directed research, Master thesis students). He/She will also be in charge of developing further the facilities of the laboratory. The candidate will also be in charge of delivering regular reports related to the associated grant.

Appointment:‍ ‍

One year renewable by mutual agreement. The candidate is expected to join the team as soon as a successful interview has been completed.

Benefits:

In addition to a competitive salary, the successful candidate will enjoy a generous benefits package, details can be provided by Human Resources.

Application requirement :

Applicant requirements are as below. They should be numbered and attached to the application in the following order:

1. Detailed CV including list of publications, awards, with potential start date.

2. Short statement of previous work, title of the post-doc fellowship you apply for, and a description of your vision and of your research plan on that field (the document does not need to be extensive - no more than one A4 page – but should be very high quality. It should clearly highlight a vision of the candidate in the field, a prior understanding of the related literature and the definition of key steps towards innovative results in the field. Special care should be given by the candidate to this document, which is a key element of the decision process towards recruitment).

3. Names and contact information of three referees.

4. Slides from a recent presentation in a conference or seminar.

5. Pdf of a recent publication considered by the candidate as being representative of his research work..

Interested applicants should send their complete application package to Prof. Gilles Lubineau (gilles.lubineau@kaust.edu.sa) (With a systematic cc to ahmed.abdelhady.1@kaust.edu.sa‍ ‍‍ ‍and rizwan.bajwa@kaust.edu.sa).

PLEASE USE this as the subject of your email: Post Doc MCEM26–Insitu characterization

Note: Applicant will be evaluated on a rolling basis and closed as soon as the position is filled.

Only applications providing all requirements will be considered further.‍ ‍