PhD student position in Solid and Structural Mechanics

Take the opportunity to minimize traffic disruptions and develop effective mitigation strategies in the PhD project Wheel and Rail Damage - Evolution, Interplay, and Countermeasures. This project investigates the occurrence and growth of various forms of damage by numerical simulations and data analysis of progressive operational deterioration. The findings will contribute to recommendations based on efficiency analyses of countermeasures and cost assessments for operations under deteriorated conditions.

About us

The project will be part of the activities within the Swedish National Centre of Excellence in Railway Mechanics CHARMEC - CHAlmers Railway MEChanics, established in 1995. The long-term CHARMEC research aims at reducing the railways costs for production, operation and maintenance while improving safety, reliability and transport quality, and decreasing the environmental footprint.

The position will be placed at the Division of Dynamics at the Department of Mechanics and Maritime Sciences (M2). As a PhD student you will belong to the Graduate School of Solid and Structural Mechanics.

Project overview

Wheel and rail damage are major contributors to railway deterioration and significant cost drivers in railway operations. This project aims to improve the quantification of damage consequences, supporting the development of preventive and corrective maintenance strategies that minimize operational disruptions, costs, and environmental impact. The gained knowledge and predictive tools developed will also aid in the design of running gear and track components. This research builds on previous CHARMEC projects and will be conducted in close collaboration with industrial partners as part of European research projects.

Who we are looking for

We seek candidates with the following qualifications:

• A Master of Science degree (Swedish civilingenjör) equivalent to at least 240 higher education credits in Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Engineering Physics or similar with a focus on solid mechanics, numerical methods (e.g., FEM), and multibody dynamics. (We also welcome applications from candidates who will graduate soon).
• Proficiency in Matlab or Python, as well as commercial finite element analysis software.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills in English.
• Ability to work independently, take initiative, and assume responsibility.
• Strong collaborative skills, as the project involves close interaction with other disciplines and industrial partners.
• Analytical problem-solving abilities and a strong interest in research.
• Proven ability to present results concisely, both orally and in writing.
• Willingness to learn and teach.

Additional qualifications that will strengthen your application:

• Courses and projects in applied mechanics.
• Experience in multibody dynamics simulations.
• Knowledge of Swedish is an advantage but not required. Chalmers offers Swedish courses, and you will be encouraged to learn the language during your employment. After two years, you are expected to teach tutorials in Swedish.

Main responsibilities

As a PhD student, your primary responsibilities include:

• Developing scientific concepts and presenting research findings both verbally and in writing.
• Taking advanced-level courses relevant to the project, following the syllabus of the Graduate School.
• Teaching undergraduate courses or performing other departmental duties corresponding to 10-20% of your working hours.

Find more general information about doctoral studies at Chalmers here.

Contract terms and what we offer

• The PhD position is a full-time, temporary appointment for a maximum of 4.5 to 5 years, depending on the extent of teaching and departmental duties undertaken. The initial contract is for one year.
• The aim is to start the project around summer 2025, but the exact timing can be discussed.
• As a PhD student at Chalmers, you are an employee and enjoy all employee benefits. Read more about working at Chalmers and our benefits for employees.
• A dynamic and inspiring working environment in the coastal city of Gothenburg.
• A starting salary of 34,550 SEK per month (valid from May 1, 2025).

Chalmers is dedicated to improving gender balance and actively works with equality projects, such as the GENIE Initiative for gender equality and excellence. Equality and diversity are substantial foundations in all activities at Chalmers.

Application procedure

Your application must be written in English and submitted as PDF files (include your family name in filenames). Each file should not exceed 40 MB (zip files are not supported).

Required documents:

• CV (max 2 pages, including two references that we may contact).
• Personal letter (1-2 pages introducing yourself and detailing relevant experience, e.g., education, thesis work, and research activities).
• Additional documents:
  • Bachelors and Masters thesis works.
  • Education certificates and transcripts (including program details: courses, credits, grades).
  • Documents confirming your English proficiency (e.g., TOEFL/IELTS test results).

Important:

• Incomplete applications and those sent via email will not be considered.
• All candidates will be evaluated after the deadline, and security concerns may be taken into account.
• Use the button at the bottom of the page to access the application form.

Application deadline: 1 March, 2025

Contact information

For questions, please contact:

• Professor Elena Kabo elena.kabo@chalmers.se +46 31 772 1302

• Professor Anders Ekberg anders.ekberg@chalmers.se +46 31 772 3480
• Head of Division, Associate Professor Peter Folkow peter.folkow@chalmers.se
• HR Partner at M2 Katrin Axelsson katrin.axelsson@chalmers.se

*** Chalmers declines to consider all offers of further announcement publishing or other types of support for the recruiting process in connection with this position. ***

Chalmers University of Technology in Gothenburg conducts research and education in technology and natural sciences at a high international level. The university has around 3100 employees and 11,000 students, and offers education in engineering, science, shipping and architecture. With scientific excellence as a basis, Chalmers promotes knowledge and technical solutions for a sustainable world. Through global commitment and entrepreneurship, we foster an innovative spirit, in close collaboration with wider society. Chalmers was founded in 1829 and has the same motto today as it did then: Avancez - forward.