PhD Position in ML in the MSCA Doctoral Network ASSESS - at University of Warsaw, Poland

PhD Vacancy for a Doctoral Candidate (DC5) in ML vibration-based algorithms for damage diagnosis of smart FRP structures in the MSCA Doctoral Network ASSESS - at University of Warsaw, Poland

Job description

The objective of this DC is to develop and validate ML data-driven, random-vibration-based methodologies for robust and scalable SHM of advanced CFRP structures. This approach will take into account material uncertainties resulting from internal inhomogeneities, manufacturing defects, and variable EOCs.

A key innovation will be the integration of conductive polymer nanocomposite-based sensors—such as CNT- or graphene-filled thermoplastics—which can be directly embedded or surface-mounted on composite components. These flexible and adaptable sensors offer high sensitivity to deformation and compatibility with composite materials, enabling real-time monitoring of dynamic responses.

The proposed SHM methods will adopt novel concepts such as OMMRs and Functional Pooling, taking advantage of a unique MIMO transmission-type stochastic modeling framework. Sensor inputs will be obtained from both conventional piezoelectric transducers (PZTs) and polymer nanocomposite-based sensors, enabling hybrid, multi-modal data acquisition. The Horizon Europe MARIE SKŁODOWSKA-CURIE ACTION Doctoral Network (DN)  ASSESS (Automated online monitoring of Smart compoSitE StructureS) 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.

Research Fields:

The research fields for this position span multiple disciplines with the primary focus to be on data-driven vibration-based Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) of composite structures based on machine learning and stochastic approaches for signals and systems analysis and innovative solutions for robust damage diagnosis under uncertainty.

Secondments:

University of BARI, Italy (Months 14-15)

KU Leuven (Months 24-30)

IWES, field tests on GFRP wind turbine blades in real EOCs (Month 32-35)

Key Responsibilities:

• Conduct research as outlined in the project’s objectives under the supervision of Professor Anna Boczkowska                            
• 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:

Main Supervisor: Professor Anna Boczkowska (WUT), Co-supervisor: Professor Dimitrios Chronopoulos (KU Leuven), Mentor: Dr Kamil Dydek (WUT)

Requirements

Eligibility Criteria

• A Master's degree (or equivalent) in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Aeronautics or related fields.
• 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 Poland for more than 12 months in the 3 years immediately prior to their recruitment. Short stays, such as holidays, are not taken into account.

Required Skills:

• Composite Materials and Structures: Strong understanding of the behavior, manufacturing, and damage mechanisms of composite materials, such as CFRPs and GFRPs.
• Structural Dynamics: Very good knowledge of vibration analysis, wave propagation, and finite element modelling (FEM).
• Stochastic Signals and Systems: Very good in analyzing stochastic systems, time series data, and signal processing.
• Structural Health Monitoring (SHM): Experience with data-driven vibration-based SHM methods and structural identification techniques.
• Programming: Excellent skills in MATLAB and/or Python for data analysis, modeling, and simulation.
• Strong conceptual and analytical skills
• The ability to work both independently and as part of a team

Optional Skills:

• Machine Learning: Basic knowledge of ML methods, particularly those applicable to data-driven diagnostics and predictive modeling.
• Experimental Experience: Hands-on experience with experimental modal analysis, structural dynamics testing, and vibration-based SHM.
• Research and Publications: Prior involvement in research projects and authorship of scientific publications in relevant fields.
• Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary and international research environment.

Academic Host:

Warsaw University of Technology, Faculty of Materials Science and Engineering, Poland.

The Warsaw University of Technology is not only the oldest and largest but also the best technical university in Poland; in the ranking of Polish universities, it has taken the first place in its category for nine years. At WUT, over 180 student research groups, organisations and associations are active, and the educational offer includes more than 30 fields of study (also with English as a medium of instruction). The Faculty of Materials Science and Engineering (FMSE) is the leading research and higher education institution in Poland. FMSE combines a strong interest in new materials and technologies with significant achievements in applied science. 

Website: https://www.wim.pw.edu.pl/wim_en  

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.

The financial package includes the following*:

• Monthly living allowance: €3,400/month, adjusted by applying the country correction coefficient for the country of recruitment (Poland). The coefficients are outlined in Table 1 of MSCA Work Programme 2023-24 version adopted on 6 December 2022 (European Commission Decision C(2022) 7550 (https://adaptmet.eu/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/FINAL-PUBLISHED_6Dec2022_-wp-2-msca-actions_horizon-2023-2024_en.pdf)
• 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 €2,774.40 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 Anna Boczkowska, via anna.boczkowska@pw.edu.pl.

Application procedure
Are you interested in this vacancy? Please apply no later than 4 June 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

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.

You can address your application to Prof Anna Boczkowska.

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.

Please note:

• You can apply online. We will not process applications sent by email and/or post. 
• Please do not contact us for unsolicited services.