Computational techniques for damage and fracture under multiphysics loads

About the Project

Estimating the structural integrity of components under multiphysical loading conditions is becoming increasingly important for applications in energy and transportation. Although computational methodologies have evolved for multiphysics problems, high-fidelity computational methods that are robust and scalable on high-performance computing architectures for simulating damage and fracture of structures under multiphysical loading conditions are still lacking. This PhD project aims to develop advanced computational methodologies for modelling damage and fracture of solids under multiphysical loading conditions - such as hydrodynamic, thermal, electro-mechanical and chemo-mechanical loads - based on phase-field formulations, applied element method, material point method and peridynamics.

The major research activities of the project are:

• Develop computational methodologies for damage and fracture under multiphysical loading conditions.
• Test and validate the computational framework.
• Explore practical applications of the developed computational framework.
• Disseminate research outputs in journals and at conferences.

Perspective applicants are encouraged to contact the supervisor, Dr Chennakesava Kadapa at c.kadapa@napier.ac.uk before submitting their applications.

Academic qualifications

First degree (minimum 2:1 classification) in Mechanical/Civil/Aerospace/Ocean Engineering or Mathematics or Physics. The candidates must have a master’s degree in relevant fields.

English language requirement

IELTS score must be at least 6.5 (with not less than 6.0 in each of the four components). Other, equivalent qualifications will be accepted. Full details of the University’s policy are available online.

Essential attributes:

• Fundamental knowledge of mechanics of materials mechanics, continuum mechanics, engineering maths, numerical methods (FDM/FEM/FVM) and programming skills in MATLAB or Python or C or C++
• A strong fundamental Knowledge of solid mechanics, strength of materials, and continuum mechanics.
• Competent in MATLAB or Python or C or C++ or Fortran or Julia.
• Knowledge of numerical methods (FEM/FVM/FDM), computer modelling and simulations.
• Good written and oral communication skills.
• Strong motivation for research, with evidence of independent research skills relevant to the project.
• Good time management

Desirable attributes:

• Experience in using simulation software such as ANSYS, Abaqus, LS-DYNA, COMSOL, etc.
• Experience in using Unix/Linux OS.
• Knowledge of particle methods.
• Self-motivated.
• Ability to learn and adopt quickly

APPLICATION CHECKLIST

• Completed application form
• CV
• 2 academic references, using the Postgraduate Educational Reference Form (download)
• Research project outline of 2 pages (list of references excluded). The outline may provide details about
  1. Background and motivation of the project. The motivation, explaining the importance of the project, should be supported also by relevant literature. You can also discuss the applications you expect for the project results.
  2. Research questions or objectives.
  3. Methodology: types of data to be used, approach to data collection, and data analysis methods.
  4. List of references.

The outline must be created solely by the applicant. Supervisors can only offer general discussions about the project idea without providing any additional support.

• Statement no longer than 1 page describing your motivations and fit with the project.
• Evidence of proficiency in English (if appropriate)

To be considered, the application must use

• the advertised title as project title

PhD Start Date: October 2026

Application link: https://evision.napier.ac.uk/si/sits.urd/run/siw_sso.go?mP9MDnTs1Rwm8ftb3WVhDhXtraMQwXSUMdHC9wIc34es5bJqXf

Funding Notes

International applicants should note that visa application costs and the NHS health surcharge are additional costs to be taken into consideration, and successful applicants will need to cover these expenses themselves.