About the Positions

Are you passionate about creating safer, more resilient structures to withstand earthquakes? Join the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at the University of Auckland as a PhD candidate to contribute to cutting-edge research in Structural and Earthquake Engineering.

These projects focus on the seismic performance of bridges and unreinforced masonry structures, tackling challenges critical to the safety of modern and historic infrastructures. Depending on your background, you will:

• Investigate the seismic behavior of novel rocking bridge configurations through numerical and experimental methods, or
• Examine the dynamic behavior and retrofitting of unreinforced masonry structures using analytical, numerical, and experimental approaches.

You will work with a dynamic team of leading faculty members in an environment committed to advancing seismic resilience and preserving cultural heritage.

Eligibility Requirements

We are looking for candidates with the following qualifications:

• Academic Excellence: A strong academic background in Structural Engineering, Civil Engineering, or a closely related field. A Master’s degree is preferred.
• Technical Skills: Familiarity with programming languages (e.g., MATLAB, Python) or numerical modelling software (e.g., Abaqus, OpenSees, 3DEC) is desirable.
• Personal Attributes: Passionate, self-motivated, with strong problem-solving and time management skills.
• Language Proficiency: Fluency in English, both written and spoken.

Responsibilities

• Conduct numerical and experimental studies on seismic performance and resilience.
• Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team of researchers and industry partners.
• Present findings at international conferences and publish in high-impact journals.
• Contribute to the development of innovative solutions for seismic resilience in infrastructure.

What We Offer

• Scholarship Funding:
  • International candidates with a high GPA can compete for the University of Auckland Doctoral Scholarship, which provides:
    • A tax-free stipend of $34,569 NZD per annum (adjusted annually for CPI) for up to 36 months.
    • Coverage for tuition, student services fees, and single-student health insurance.
    • Additional six months of funding may be available.
  • Chinese applicants are encouraged to apply for the China Scholarship Council (CSC) collaboration scholarship.
• Resources and Support:
  • Access to state-of-the-art laboratories, testing facilities, and computational tools.
  • Opportunities for international collaboration and networking with global experts.
  • A vibrant and supportive research environment dedicated to professional growth.

Application Process

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Early applications are strongly encouraged.

To Apply: Email the following documents to Dr. Anastasios Giouvanidis.

1. A single-page cover letter detailing your motivation, research interests, and relevant experience.
2. A detailed CV including academic background, projects, publications, and the contact details of two academic referees.
3. Academic transcripts (undergraduate and postgraduate).