Shear banding instabilities in soft materials (PhD topic)

03.06.2019, Wissenschaftliches Personal

The research group “Fluid Dynamics of Complex Biosystems (FDCB)” headed by Prof. Dr. Natalie Germann has an open position in the field of computational fluid dynamics.

The research group “Fluid Dynamics of Complex Biosystems (FDCB)” headed by Prof. Dr. Natalie Germann has an open position in the field of computational fluid dynamics.

Your research environment

The research of Professor Germann’s fluid dynamics group focuses on the rheology of viscoelastic fluids that are of industrial relevance (e.g., wormlike micelles, (bio-)polymer solutions). To establish a more fundamental understanding of viscoelastic fluid behavior under processing conditions, the FDCB group investigates the relationship between their rheology and their microstructure using a variety of different methods. For more information about our research group, please visit our group website (http://germann.wzw.tum.de/).

Your project

Shear banding is a ubiquitous phenomenon observed in soft materials, including soaps, shampoos, pastes, glass, and food products. Strong shearing formations can develop localized bands with different shear rates, known as shear bands. Although shear banding is a common phenomenon in soft materials, the underlying mechanisms are not always the same and still not well understood. The goal of this PhD work is to systematically address these questions for different types of soft materials using a combined computational-experimental approach.

Your profile

We are looking for a talented individual who is excited about academic research. He/she should be able to work independently as well as to cooperate with an interdisciplinary team of researchers. Applicants should hold a Master degree in computational engineering, applied physics or a related field. Good communication skills and fluency in both written and spoken English are required. Professional German language skills are expected since the candidate should be able to actively participate in the teaching activities of the FDCB group.

Our offer

The Technische Universität von München (TUM) is one of the most renowned universities in Europe. We are offering excellent working conditions in a highly international research environment. The salary is in accordance with the Public Sector Collective Agreement on Länder (TV-L E13 50%). The position can be filled immediately and is initially limited to two years. Continuation of the appointment beyond this period of time is intended. The salary will be increased by 25% after the PhD student has published one peer-reviewed research article and has been involved in the preparation of one competitive research proposal that has been accepted for funding.

Your application

Please send your application by electronic mail and preferably in one single pdf-document to natalie.germann@tum.de. For full consideration, the application should include a cover letter, a detailed CV, a list of publications, copies of all educational certificates and transcripts of records, a summary of past research activities, evidence of teaching interest and abilities, and three letters of recommendation. Applications are processed as soon as they are received. TUM is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified women are therefore particularly encouraged to apply. Applicants with disabilities are treated with preference given comparable qualification.

Kontakt: Prof. Dr. Natalie Germann (natalie.germann@tum.de)