PhD Position Integrated CNT in the MSCA Doctoral Network ASSESS - at CUS, Austria

PhD Position Integrated CNT in the MSCA Doctoral Network ASSESS - at CUS, Austria

PhD Vacancy for a Doctoral Candidate (DC8) in Integrated CNT-reinforced filler and SAW Transponder, for Wind Turbine Blade Health Monitoring in the MSCA Doctoral Network ASSESS - at CUS, Austria

Job description

In the context of the green transition, extending the lifespan of wind turbines is crucial. Real-time monitoring of the structural health of these systems, particularly the turbine blades, is a key challenge. Among the most critical needs is the early detection of cracks, which can significantly impact performance and safety.

In the frame of project ASSESS, we want to develop an innovative early crack detection solution. This solution leverages a novel CNT-based composite material combined with a Surface Acoustic Wave (SAW) transducer. The SAW transducer will monitor the health of the material and wirelessly transmit the information—without requiring onboard electronics—to an interrogator mounted on the turbine mast.

This groundbreaking research will be carried out in collaboration with two leading institutions: the Université de Technologie de Compiègne (France) and the Politechnika Warszawska (Poland). This PhD is part of the ASSESS project.

Expected Tasks

• Conduct a thorough review of the state-of-the-art.
• Design, develop, manufacture, simulate, test, and validate the innovative [SAW/Composite] solution in both laboratory and field settings (involving SAW sensors, composite material physics and mechanics, electronics, and mechatronics).
• Design and implement dedicated testing benches (mechatronics).
• Write scientific publications and present research findings at national and international scientific conferences.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct research as outlined in the project’s objectives.
• Engage in secondments as part of the project’s training activities.
• Contribute to academic publications, project reports, and other dissemination activities.
• Participate in structured training programs and network-wide events organized by the consortium.
• Collaborate with international partners and other Doctoral Candidates within the network.

Principal Supervisor:

CUAS : Prof. Pascal Nicolay

UTC : Prof. Zoheir Aboura

Requirements

Eligibility Criteria

• A Master's degree (or equivalent).
• Not in possession of a doctoral degree at the date of the recruitment.
• Recruited applicants can be of any nationality and must undertake trans-national mobility (i.e., move from one country to another) when taking up the appointment. In particular, at the time of selection, the recruited applicant for this position must not have resided or carried out their main activity (work, studies, etc.) in Austria for more than 12 months in the 3 years immediately prior to their recruitment. You will be asked to enclose evidence to prove this. Short stays, such as holidays, are not taken into account.

Required Skills:

• Strong hands-on skills
• Strong analytical skills
• The ability to work both independently and as part of a team

Optional Skills:

• Knowledge of French and German.
• English Requirement: High level of proficiency in English (will be tested at interview).

Academic Host:

Academic host: Carinthia University of Applied Sciences (AT)

Host laboratory: Carinthia Institute for Smart Materials (CiSMAT)

Awarding University: Université de Technologie de Compiègne (FR)

Conditions of employment

The successful candidate will receive a competitive and attractive academic remuneration package in accordance with MSCA regulations for doctoral candidates. The researcher will be employed under a contract that includes social security coverage and pension rights.

The financial package includes the following*:

• Monthly living allowance: €3,400/month, adjusted by applying the country correction coefficient for the country of recruitment (Austria).
• Monthly mobility allowance: €600/month.
• Monthly family allowance (if applicable, depending on family situation): €660/month.

*The living allowance above represents the total EU contribution to the researcher’s salary costs. The estimated gross salary is approximately €3.614,20 per month (only considering the living allowance), inclusive of both employee and employer tax contributions. The net salary will be calculated by deducting these contributions and any other applicable national taxes (e.g., income tax) from the gross amount.

Other Benefits:

The doctoral candidate will also benefit from comprehensive training within the ASSESS network, including participation in at least six specialized Training Events organized by the MSCA-ASSESS network. Additional opportunities include secondments to partner laboratories, a range of advanced training courses (including transferable skills development), and active engagement in workshops and international conferences, providing a well-rounded and enriching research experience. Expected Start Date: Q2 2025

Additional information

If you would like more information about this vacancy or the selection procedure, please contact Prof. Nicolay Pascal (P.Nicolay@fh-kaernten.at).

Project Description:

The Horizon Europe MARIE SKŁODOWSKA-CURIE ACTION Doctoral Network (DN) ASSESS (Automated online monitoring of Smart compoSitE StructureS - Grant Agreement Number 101168031) offers 12 exciting PhD positions to develop next-generation smart composites for strategic European industries such as aviation, space, and wind energy.

Composite materials with embedded sensors and nanomaterials hold the potential for real-time structural health monitoring. However, industrial adoption is hindered by challenges in sensor integration, automated data analysis, standardization, and operator training. ASSESS bridges the gap between research and industry by advancing the design, manufacturing, and testing of Fibre Reinforced Polymer (FRP) composites.

As part of a multidisciplinary consortium of 9 beneficiaries and 13 Associated Partners, you will engage in pioneering research on:

• Smart composites and cutting-edge sensing technologies
• Advanced simulations and AI-driven data analysis
• Digital twins and Industry 4.0 innovations

Through collaborative projects, international secondments, and specialized training, you'll contribute to safer, lighter, and more efficient composite components, reducing CO₂ emissions, enhancing wind energy production, and supporting Europe's green transition.