PhD Position in MSCA Doctoral Network ASSESS at DII-UNINA/Novotech, in Automated online monitor[]

Organisation/Company: Novotech Department: R&D Research Field: Engineering » Aerospace engineering, Engineering » Materials engineering Researcher Profile: First Stage Researcher (R1) Positions PhD Positions Country: Italy Application Deadline: 28 Feb 2025 - 23:59 (Europe/Amsterdam) Type of Contract: Temporary Job Status: Full-time Hours Per Week: 40 Offer Starting Date: 1 Sep 2025 Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme? Horizon Europe - MSCA Reference Number: 1815 Marie Curie Grant Agreement Number: 101168031 Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure? No Offer Description This DC will develop an online ML-based ultrasonic monitoring system for automated diagnosis of manufacturing defects typically occurring during the laid-up process (e.g., voids, debonding, ply wrinkling and porosity). Such inspection system will be applied to smart CFRP monolithic and stiffened panels with integrated PZTs, fabricated using AFP and LRI methods. To reduce the signal-to-noise ratio and enhance accuracy of the diagnosis method, GW and acoustic emission features extracted from the acquired waveforms will be processed using proper transformation metrics such as the PCA algorithm prior to ML analysis. Benchmark manufacturing defects will include (1) debonding simulated by circular Teflon patches of various diameters inserted in between plies during manufacturing, (2) ply gaps intentionally introduced at tow boundaries during the layup process, which can lead to surface wrinkling and waviness, and (3) hollow glass microspheres with an average diameter of 50 micron to simulate porosity zones. The successful deployment of the proposed monitoring system will reduce the efforts in quality inspection of smart FRP structures and will contribute to significantly increase process reliability. Verification is by deliverable reports and scientific publications. This PhD is part of the ASSESS project. 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. Key Responsibilities Conduct research as outlined in the project’s objectives under the supervision of Prof. Leonardo Lecce, his collaborators at Novotech and Dr. Giuseppe Petrone at University of Napoli -DII Engage in secondments as part of the project’s training activities at Politecnico di Torino and Patras University. 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. Background on material science with particular emphasis on composite material. Some experience on composite manufacturing process (mainly automated AoA process: AFP, RTM, CM, LRI and others). Basic knowledge of SHM technologies. Strong conceptual and analytical skills. The ability to work both independently and as part of a team. English Requirement: High level of proficiency in English (will be tested at interview). Specific Requirements 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. Selection process: Application procedure Are you interested in this vacancy? Please apply no later than 28 February 2025 via the application button and upload the following documents: Detailed CV, including information on the candidate’s proficiency in English Motivational letter (1 page), describing why the position fits the applicant Contact information of 2 references Copy of Master’s degree diploma Copies of any other relevant certifications listed within CV Please refer to ASSESS DC 7 vacancy in your application. Selection Criteria: Candidates will be evaluated based on their academic background, research experience, and alignment with the project’s objectives. The selection process will be open, transparent, merit-based, impartial, and equitable. Interview: Shortlisted candidates will be invited for a structured interview with predefined questions and a scoring system. Note: Candidates selected for the Interview will need to upload the missing documentation (see Eligibility Criteria) Conditions of employment Salary: 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. 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. Francesco Ciampa, via francesco.ciampapoliba.it. Number of offers available: 1 Company/Institute: Novotech - Aerospace Advanced Technology Country: Italy State/Province: Napoli City: Casoria Postal Code: 80027 Street: Via G. Pascoli, 7 ; C/o Vulcanair J-18808-Ljbffr

Location: casoria, IT

Posted Date: 2/4/2025