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Background:
Nanoclay particles offer a cost effective reinforcement for thermoplastic polymers. The main challenge in exploiting these materials is optimisation of their morphology. This can potentially be achieved in a typical industrial forming process, through a careful optimisation of process parameters. Advanced computational modelling of such processes can be a useful tool in achieving that goal.

Research tasks:
The successful candidate will work on the development of advanced computational modelling of a highly-complex nonlinear behaviour of nanoclay-reinforced polymers subjected to mechanical loads at temperatures around glass transition. The ultimate objective of this research is to optimise process parameters (strain, strain rate, temperature) to enhance both mechanical and barrier properties of polymer nanocomposites. The research will address: (1) implementation of the 3D polymer constitutive model into FE software ABAQUS, (2) development of computational models reflecting 3D nanocomposite morphologies, and (3) development and implementation of a
3D multi-scale strategy to predict overall nanocomposite response.
Eligibility criteria and further information: Both EU and non-EU resident candidates will be considered. Candidates should hold a first or upper second class degree in engineering (or closely related discipline). They should have a strong background in solid mechanics and FEM, previous experience in programming (e.g. Fortran, Python), and interest in polymers.

Applications should include a personal statement (max. 800 words), CV, student transcript and the names and email addresses of two referees. Please direct all enquiries and applications to Dr. Lukasz Figiel by email: Lukasz.Figiel@ul.ie

The position is available immediately. Applications will be considered on a rolling basis until the post is filled.

WHO CAN APPLY
Students of any country and age with one of the following degrees:

• academic title conferred by foreign institutions, recognised as equivalent to an Italian title by the relevant academic authorities, also considering inter-university specific agreements of cooperation and mobility;
• an Italian laurea specialistica (3+2 years) or laurea magistrale (5 years)
• an Italian university degree - pre-reform regime (4 years).
• Note: to be admitted to the competition applicants must obtain the 2nd level degree no later than October 31, 2009.

Applicants with a foreign university degree (not validated by an Italian authority yet):
In order to obtain the certification of equivalence by this University Teachers' Board and for the sole purposes of the admission, applicants with a foreign university degree must attach to the application form:

• a certified copy of the University degree with the complete list of exams, the translation into Italian and the relevant authentication.
• a "Statement of validity" (Dichiarazione di valore) of the above mentioned document by the Italian Embassy or the Italian Consulate set in the country of the University which have released this document. This statement of validity must certify that the title is suitable for admission to an academic course at the same level of the PhD in the country where it has been released.

• applicants may also include all documentation, duly certified and translated into Italian, which may be judged appropriate for the purposes of the evaluation by part of the Teachers' Board (courses, programs, exams, etc).

Note: admission is sub condicione for those candidates with foreign university degree who cannot deliver the required documents before the admission competition.
Documents must be delivered before the enrolment to the course.

DEADLINES FOR APPLICATIONS
Applications must be received by Ufficio Dottorato no later than September 18, 2009. Info about admission exams, test dates and other details are available in the section of the announcement regarding the single doctorate courses.
Every communication (exam dates, ranking of qualified candidates, deadline of enrolment, further notice) will be given only by the official website: http://www.unibo.it