Fully Funded PhD/MASc position – Aerospace Structural Dynamics and FEM

Job summary

Develop and validate high-fidelity finite element models of aircraft structures, investigate linear and nonlinear dynamic responses, and evaluate mass-modeling and reduced-order modeling approaches. Compare numerical predictions with simulations and experimental data while collaborating with researchers at Concordia University and aerospace engineers at Bombardier.

Job details

The Aerospace Structures and Materials Engineering Laboratory (ASME-Lab) at Carleton University is seeking a highly motivated PhD or MASc student to join an exciting collaborative aerospace research project involving Carleton University, Concordia University, and Bombardier Aerospace, under the CRIAQ Exploring Innovation research program. Admission for Winter 2027. Research Project High-Fidelity Structural Modeling and Reduced-Order Models for Aircraft Dynamic Analysis Accurate prediction of aircraft structural dynamics is essential for ensuring structural integrity, improving aircraft performance, and supporting certification. While traditional reduced-order models (ROMs) offer computational efficiency, they may introduce inaccuracies in predicting dynamic responses, particularly at fuselage extremities and complex structural interfaces. This research aims to develop and evaluate advanced numerical modeling techniques that improve the fidelity of aircraft structural dynamic simulations while maintaining computational efficiency. The selected student will contribute to research activities involving: Development and validation of high-fidelity finite element models (FEM) for aircraft structures. Investigation of linear and nonlinear structural dynamic responses under transient loading. Evaluation of concentrated and distributed mass modeling approaches. Development and assessment of reduced-order modeling techniques. Comparison of numerical predictions with high-fidelity simulations and available experimental data. Collaboration with aerospace engineers at Bombardier and researchers at Concordia University. Candidate Qualifications Applicants should have a bachelor's or master's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a closely related discipline, with a strong background in: Finite element analysis and computational structural mechanics. Structural dynamics, vibration, and modal analysis. Numerical modeling and simulation. Experience with MSC Nastran/Patran. Experience with MATLAB and Python is an asset. Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills. Previous research experience in nonlinear finite element analysis, aircraft structural modeling, or model order reduction would be particularly valuable. Research Environment The successful candidate will conduct research at Carleton University in Ottawa, Canada, under the supervision of Dr. Mostafa El Sayed, Director of ASME-Lab, and collaborate with researchers at Concordia University and engineering specialists at Bombardier Aerospace. The project offers opportunities for industrial collaboration, advanced computational research, technical publications, and professional development in aerospace structural analysis. How to Apply Interested candidates are invited to submit: A curriculum vitae (CV). Academic transcripts. A brief statement describing research interests and relevant technical experience. Contact information for two academic references. Contact: Prof. Mostafa El Sayed Email: Mostafa.elsayed@carleton.ca Email subject: PhD/MASc Application – Aerospace Structural Dynamics and FEM Applications will be reviewed as they are received. We encourage applications from qualified candidates with diverse backgrounds and experiences.

What you’ll do

Develop and validate high-fidelity finite element models of aircraft structures, investigate linear and nonlinear dynamic responses, and evaluate mass-modeling and reduced-order modeling approaches. Compare numerical predictions with simulations and experimental data while collaborating with researchers at Concordia University and aerospace engineers at Bombardier.

Requirements

Applicants should hold a bachelor's or master's degree in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, or a closely related discipline, with a strong background in finite element analysis, structural dynamics, and numerical modeling. Experience with MSC Nastran/Patran is sought; MATLAB and Python are assets, and research experience in nonlinear analysis, aircraft modeling, or model order reduction is particularly valuable.

Listed skills

• Python · Preferred
• Communication · Preferred

Other relevant skills

Identified from the job description. Confirm important requirements above.

• Finite Element Analysis
• Computational Structural Mechanics
• Structural Dynamics
• Vibration Analysis
• Modal Analysis
• Numerical Modeling
• Simulation
• MSC Nastran/Patran
• MATLAB
• Python
• Nonlinear Finite Element Analysis
• Aircraft Structural Modeling
• Model Order Reduction
• Analytical Problem-Solving
• Communication

Job areas

• Engineering
• Science & Research
• Education