Retaining walls are important infrastructure assets that are generally overlooked compared to bridges and pavements in terms of asset management practices. Knowledge of actual design life for earth retaining structures is minimal and failures that have occurred to date have happened without warning. This study will develop a data-driven risk assessment program associated with retaining wall systems.
This project aims to:
Conduct a review of reported highway/railway retaining wall management methods and failure case studiesAssess the state of practice in retaining wall monitoring and repairPropose an effective monitoring strategy for highway/railway agencies from experimental and analytical resultsApplication details
The position is available to start in October, December, February, April or July (subject to date of application)
Duration: 3 years
Closing date: open until filled
Eligibility
Applicants should have, or expect to obtain, a 1st class or 2.1 honours degree (or international equivalent) in Civil Engineering, Materials Science, Physics or a related subject. A relevant Master degree in these areas would be advantageous.
If English is not your first language, you must provide evidence that you meet the University’s minimum English Language requirements.
Students with experience or a willingness to learn software such as MATLAB, Plaxis and Abaqus are encouraged to apply.
Due to funding restrictions this position is only available for UK or EU candidates.
Funding
Eligible for Home / EU candidates. This project will include the payment of tuition fees as well as a stipend equivalent to RCUK rates (currently at £15,009 p.a. tax free for 2019/20) awarded to the suitable candidate.
How to apply
Informal contact can be sent to Dr Athina Grizi (A.Grizi@nottingham.ac.uk) or Dr Panagiotis Psimoulis (Panagiotis.Psimoulis@nottingham.ac.uk) before submitting an online application. Please send a cover letter and a copy of your CV with your up to date relevant experience.
Online application can be made via http://www.nottingham.ac.uk/pgstudy/how-to-apply/how-to-apply.aspx. Please quote the studentship reference and Dr Athina Grizi.
When applying for this studentship, please include the reference number (beginning ENG) within the personal statement section of the application. This will help in ensuring your application is sent directly to the academic advertising the studentship.
Contact details
Dr Athina Grizi (A.Grizi@nottingham.ac.uk)
Dr Panagiotis Psimoulis (Panagiotis.Psimoulis@nottingham.ac.uk)
Closing Date: 08 Sep 2020
Category: Studentships