Supervisory Team: M.K.Kalkowski and T.Blumensath
Project description
Explore the space where physics-based modelling and artificial intelligence meet! We seek applicants for a fully-funded 3.5-year research on developing new methods for ultrasonic non-destructive characterisation of welds.
We invite you to join the Dynamics Group within the University's Institute of Sound and Vibration Research. You will contribute to developing the exciting capability in AI-powered NDT, working alongside researchers using acoustics to interrogate and characterise structures and materials of different scales and complexities. ISVR is a member of the UK's Research Centre for Non-Destructive Evaluation (RCNDE - https://rcnde.ac.uk/) and runs projects in both ultrasonic and X-ray imaging (including iWeld - https://iweld-euratom.org/ - recently funded by EURATOM).
This PhD project tackles a long-standing challenge in ultrasonic non-destructive testing – characterisation and inspection of thick weld sections. Such welds are safety-critical in various industries, e.g. nuclear energy. However, they are notoriously difficult to inspect because their complex microstructure deviates and scatters ultrasound. Up to now, we can only learn about the grain layout destructively, using EBSD or metallography, which is holding the industry back in reliable asset management. This project aims to push the boundaries of characterisation, allowing for in-situ characterisation accounting for likely uncertainties in sensor positions, weld geometry and alike. To achieve this, we will explore various artificial intelligence tools combined with physics-based modelling and inversion.
The project will involve algorithm development and testing, numerical and analytical ultrasound simulation, and EBSD datasets processing. You will have access to IRIDIS - our powerful high-performance computing cluster- and muVIS (https://www.southampton.ac.uk/muvis) advanced material characterisation facilities in the School of Engineering. You will also benefit from interactions with our industrial and academic partners across Europe, including ultrasonic measurements on industry-relevant samples.
Feel free to contact Michal Kalkowski ([Email Address Removed]) for an informal chat about the project and pursuing a PhD in Southampton. We look forward to hearing from you!
Entry Requirements
A very good undergraduate degree (at least a UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent). Background in finite element modelling and Python is highly desirable.
Closing date: applications should be received no later than 05 April 2023 for standard admissions, but the ad may close earlier if a suitable candidate is found.
Funding: For UK students, Tuition Fees and a stipend of £17,668 tax-free per annum for up to 3.5 years.
How To Apply
Apply online: Search for a Postgraduate Programme of Study (soton.ac.uk). Select programme type (Research), 2023/24, Faculty of Physical Sciences and Engineering, next page select “PhD Engineering & Environment (Full time)”. In Section 2 of the application form you should insert the name of the supervisor Michal Kalkowski
Applications should include:
Curriculum Vitae
Two reference letters
Degree Transcripts/Certificates to date
For further information please contact: [Email Address Removed]
The School of Engineering is committed to promoting equality, diversity inclusivity as demonstrated by our Athena SWAN award. We welcome all applicants regardless of their gender, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation or age, and will give full consideration to applicants seeking flexible working patterns and those who have taken a career break. The University has a generous maternity policy, onsite childcare facilities, and offers a range of benefits to help ensure employees’ well-being and work-life balance. The University of Southampton is committed to sustainability and has been awarded the Platinum EcoAward.
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