PhD Studentship: Predictive Modelling of Hydrogen Embrittlement Using Physics-Informed Neural Networks

The project:

We invite applications for a fully funded PhD studentship in the Solid Mechanics Group at the University of Bristol to work on the predictive modeling of hydrogen-induced damage in structural alloys. The project will combine advanced phase-field fracture mechanics, continuum-scale chemo-thermo-mechanical modeling, and advanced machine learning techniques for enhanced prediction accuracy. Hydrogen embrittlement poses a significant threat to the reliability of structural materials in critical industries such as aerospace, nuclear, and hydrogen energy infrastructure. The student will develop a coupled computational framework capable of predicting crack initiation, propagation, and component failure under realistic operating conditions. Key Objectives: - Develop a finite element-based chemo-thermo-mechanical phase-field model incorporating hydrogen diffusion, mechanical degradation, and fracture evolution. - Employ physics-informed neural networks (PINNs) to infer hidden fields and accelerate the solution of governing PDEs. - Train machine learning models to predict lifetime and failure based on loading and environmental histories. The PhD student will have access to world-class computing facilities, mentorship from experts in solid mechanics, and opportunities to collaborate with industrial partners in the hydrogen energy and aerospace sectors. The student will join the Solid Mechanics Group (SMG), a multidisciplinary research team within the School of Electrical, Electronic and Mechanical Engineering. SMG is known for its work in computational mechanics, fatigue, fracture, and advanced materials modeling. The student will benefit from a dynamic environment with opportunities to engage in training, collaborative research, and international conferences.

How to apply:

Prior to submitting an online application, you will need to contact the project supervisor to discuss.

Online applications are made by clicking the 'Apply' button, above.

Please select PhD in Mechanical Engineering on the Programme Choice page.

You will be prompted to enter details of the studentship in the Funding and Research Details sections of the form.

Candidate requirements: 

Applicants must hold/achieve a minimum of a merit at master’s degree level (or international equivalent) in a science, mathematics or engineering discipline. Applicants without a master's qualification may be considered on an exceptional basis, provided they hold a first-class undergraduate degree. Please note, acceptance will also depend on evidence of readiness to pursue a research degree.

If English is not your first language, you need to meet this profile level: Profile E

Further information about English language requirements and profile levels.

Funding:  University of Bristol PhD Studentship Scheme

Contacts:

For questions about the research topic, please contact:

Dr Ozgur Aslan - ozgur.aslan@bristol.ac.uk

For questions about eligibility and the application process please contact Engineering Postgraduate Research Admissions admissions-engpgr@bristol.ac.uk

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