PhD Ultrasonic imaging for sculptures and ceramics

The “UNVEIL” brings together Universities, Research Organisations and leading European institutions involved in (a) developing and application of novel methods in nondestructive testing and evaluation and (b) the preservation of our cultural heritage. UNVEIL aims to transform the diagnostics and preservation of cultural heritage by developing innovative non-destructive evaluation (NDE) techniques and advanced digital tools for diagnostics, conservation and public engagement. The network brings together academic, industrial and cultural institutions to (i) enhance surface and subsurface analysis of multi-layered and 3D artworks using techniques such as terahertz imaging, thermography and ultrasonics; and (ii) integrate and visualise multimodal NDE data using data fusion, digital twins and augmented reality to provide a holistic understanding of artworks’ condition and structure.

The objects of interest in this project will be sculptures, architectural columns and porcelain parts. First step is to gain an overview of the most interesting defects in these types of objects, which are then compared with the capabilities of various modern ultrasonic techniques (UT) and imaging evaluation strategies. The techniques used will include Laser Doppler Vibrometry (LDV) and Air Coupled (AC) ultrasound detection. The candidate will design optimized setups for (i) vibration excitation by an impactor or ultrasonic transducers and (ii) non-contact detection by LDV or AC devices. He will optimize the image generation using modern ultrasonic methods as synthetic aperture focusing and total focusing. The candidate will gain hands-on experience with modern NDT instrumentation and advanced NDE signal processing methods.

Be part of change

The Fraunhofer Institute for Ceramic Technologies and Systems IKTS conducts applied research on high-performance ceramics and represents Europe‘s largest R&D institute dedicated to the study of ceramics. Furthermore, the institute has expertise in diagnostics and testing of materials and processes. Test procedures in the fields of acoustics, electromagnetics, optics, microscopy and laser technology contribute substantially to the quality assurance of products and plants. The Beneficiary will use the well-equipped SHM and ultrasound laboratories.
The Fraunhofer IKTS is situated in Dresden, the capital city of Saxony in Germany. Dresden has a long history as capital and royal residence for the former kings of Saxony. Because it is full of history and culture, Dresden is one of Germany’s touristic highlights. The Dresden University of Technology is one of the 10 largest universities in Germany and part of the German Universities Excellence Initiative. The so called “Neustadt” quarter of the town is full of young people and students and a great place to enjoy the nightlife. In the southeast of Dresden around the Elbe valley you find the national park Saxon Switzerland, a hilly climbing, hiking and bicycle area.

What you contribute

Mandatory skills:

• M. Sc. / Diploma in Physics, Mathematics, Acoustical or Electrical Engineering or similar courses of studies
• Drive to implement own ideas experimentally and/or numerically
• Very good organisational skills and an independent way of working
• Fluent in written and spoken English

Optional skills:

• Basic knowledge in German
• Experience with acoustic/ultrasonic NDT
• Background in mechanical or electrical measuring principles
• programming skills e.g. in MATHEMATICA, MATLAB and/or C++

Eligibility requirements

• Applicants must not already hold a doctoral degree.
• Applicants must comply with the MSCA mobility rule: they must not have resided or carried out their main activity in Germany for more than 12 months in the 36 months before recruitment.

What we offer

This position is part of the UNVEIL Marie Skłodowska-Curie Doctoral Network, funded by the European Union under the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (Doctoral Networks), Grant Agreement No. 101226363. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Research Executive Agency. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.

Recruitment will follow an open, transparent, merit-based, impartial and equitable procedure.
Only applications submitted through the official Fraunhofer application portal will be considered. See the UNVEIL recruitment page and collective advert for the other positions offered within UNVEIL:

MSCA Doctoral Salary (monthly, gross)

The salary consists of three components which are added together:

• Living Allowance – Approx. 4 058 € (base 4 010 € × 101,2% CCC; see European Commission document, page 156)
• Mobility Allowance – 710 €
• Family Allowance – 495 € (if applicable)
• Total gross monthly salary: with family allowance: 5 263 €, without family allowance: 4 768 €

Note: Net salary depends on social contributions and local tax.

The weekly working time is 39 hours. The position is limited for three years. We value and promote the diversity of our employees' skills and therefore welcome all applications – regardless of age, gender, nationality, ethnic and social origin, religion, ideology, disability, sexual orientation and identity. Severely disabled persons are given preference in the event of equal suitability. Our tasks are diverse and adaptable – for applicants with disabilities, we work together to find solutions that best promote their abilities.

With its focus on developing key technologies that are vital for the future and enabling the commercial utilization of this work by business and industry, Fraunhofer plays a central role in the innovation process. As a pioneer and catalyst for groundbreaking developments and scientific excellence, Fraunhofer helps shape society now and in the future.

Ready for a change? Then apply now and make a difference! Once we have received your online application, you will receive an automatic confirmation of receipt. We will then get back to you as soon as possible and let you know what happens next.

Your contact:

Dr. Bernd Köhler

[email protected]

Fraunhofer Institute for Ceramic Technologies and Systems IKTS

Requisition Number: 83877Application Deadline: