About us
The University of Luxembourg is an international research university with a distinctly multilingual and interdisciplinary character.
The Faculty of Science, Technology and Medicine (FSTM) at the University of Luxembourg contributes multidisciplinary expertise in the fields of Mathematics, Physics, Engineering, Computer Science, Life Sciences and Medicine.
Through its dual mission of teaching and research, the FSTM seeks to generate and disseminate knowledge and train new generations of responsible citizens in order to better understand, explain and advance society and environment we live in.
The Department of Engineering (DoE) is interdisciplinary and active in the classical domains of civil, electrical, mechanical, and computational engineering. The focus of research is on the development of technological solutions, the sustainable and economical use of all kinds of resources, the offer of competences to meet the technological requirements of Luxembourg and the Greater Region's industrial and public actors. Special emphasis is placed on numerical simulation to reduce the required experimental effort, but the validation of the models in laboratory setups will remain essential.
Your role
The research project, "Next-Generation Hybrid Dampers: Integrating Tuned Metamaterials and Particle Damping," seeks to develop a novel approach to engineering structural components with adaptable, adjustable damping characteristics.
Vibration-induced fatigue and shock loading are among the primary causes of failure in critical engineering components. Although particle damping is an effective passive vibration-control technique, its performance can be limited by phenomena such as granular jamming and dead zones, where particles become immobilized and dissipate less energy. The project seeks to overcome these limitations by combining particle damping with architected metamaterial concepts enabled by Laser Powder Bed Fusion (LPBF). The proposed approach will employ optimized internal cavities acting as Tuned Mass Dampers (TMDs), designed to resonate near critical structural vibration modes. The resulting dynamic motion is expected to enhance particle activity, reduce jamming effects, and improve energy dissipation. In parallel, engineered powders, including Cermetal and WC-Co-based materials, will be investigated as energy-absorbing media within the damping system. The development combines computational modeling, machine learning simulations, topology optimization, additive manufacturing, and experimental validation to create advanced vibration-resistant components. So, the project is expected to deliver new design methodologies, numerical tools, and optimization frameworks to develop parts with enhanced damping performance.
In addition to the primary project, the PhD candidate will participate in ongoing activities within the research group, such as project preparation, numerical modeling, experimental testing, and validation.
For inquiries, please contact Dr Eng. Slawomir Kedziora:
Your profile
- A candidate should hold an MSc degree in one of the following domains: mechanical engineering or related fields
- Experience in computational mechanics of materials and structures
- An interest in computer simulations, testing, and validation processes
Language Requirements:
Applicants must demonstrate at least B2-level proficiency in the language of their thesis. For details and accepted certificates, please visit the Application for admission - Doctoral Candidates.
We offer
- A modern, dynamic university with a personal and inclusive atmosphere. Multilingual and international character. Staff coming from more than 90 countries. Member of The Guild of European Research Intensive Universities
- An exceptional research environment, supported by skilled staff and high-quality equipment. Strong links to professional sectors and the Luxembourg labour market. A unique urban campus with excellent infrastructure
- A partner for society and industry. Cooperation with European institutions, innovative companies, the Financial Centre and a wide range of non-academic partners including ministries, local governments, associations, and NGOs
How to apply
Applications should include:
- Curriculum Vitae
- Cover letter presenting your motivation for this doctoral thesis topic, and explaining how your qualifications and aspirations align with its academic focus
- Transcript of all modules and results from university-level courses taken
Early application is highly encouraged, as the applications will be processed upon reception. Please apply ONLINE formally through the HR system. Applications by Email will not be considered.
All qualified individuals are encouraged to apply. In line with our values, the University of Luxembourg promotes an inclusive culture. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds and are dedicated to upholding equality and respect for our employees and students.
General information:
- Contract Type: Fixed Term Contract 36 Month
- Work Hours: Full Time 40.0 Hours per Week
- Location: Kirchberg Campus
- Internal Title: Doctoral Researcher
- Job Reference: UOL08296
The yearly gross salary for every Doctoral researcher at the UL is EUR 43445 (full time).
