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PhD in Structural and Earthquake Engineering on Seismic Protection Systems

Polytechnique Montréal Department of Civil, Geological, and Mining Engineering
✓ Fully Funded ⏰ Closing Soon 🎓 Structural Engineering structural dynamics experimental testing seismic isolation rocking systems numerical modeling bridge design seismic protection reinforcement strategies

Explore innovative seismic protection systems to safeguard infrastructure in earthquake-prone areas. Develop and test experimental systems, validate numerical models, and contribute valuable research to structural safety and resilience.

AI-generated overview

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Why This Research Matters

This research addresses critical challenges in protecting infrastructure from earthquake damage, enhancing safety, affordability, and sustainability. By developing innovative seismic protection technologies, it helps reduce the risk to human life and economic loss in vulnerable earthquake-prone regions.

Structural Engineering Earthquake Engineering Structural Dynamics Bridge Design 3D Printing

Project Description

Project Overview

This research focuses on developing high-performance seismic protection systems such as seismic isolation, rocking systems, and innovative reinforcement strategies to enhance the safety and sustainability of structures in earthquake-prone regions.

What You Will Do

  • Design, build, and test seismic protection systems using Polytechnique Montreal's advanced structural testing facilities.
  • Develop and validate numerical models simulating structural response under seismic loading.
  • Publish research findings in peer-reviewed journals and present at international conferences.

Expected Outcomes

By completing this research, new seismic protection technologies will be better understood and optimized to protect critical infrastructure like bridges and buildings, potentially reducing earthquake damage and associated costs.

Why This Matters

Earthquake safety is critical for infrastructure in seismic regions. This research aims to provide affordable, sustainable technologies to enhance structural resilience, thereby safeguarding lives and economic assets in vulnerable communities.

Entry Requirements

Master's degree (or equivalent) in Structural/Earthquake Engineering or a closely related field. Strong interest in structural/earthquake engineering, experimental testing, and numerical modeling. Highly motivated, curious, able to work independently and collaboratively.

How to Apply

Send a single PDF to antonios.katsamakas@polymtl.ca with the subject line "PhD Application — [Your Name]" including a CV, academic transcripts, motivation letter (max 600 words), and contact details of two referees. Applications by 2026-05-30 receive full consideration; later applications reviewed until position filled.

Eligibility

UK/Home
EU
International

Supervisor Profile

PA
Prof. Antonios Katsamakas
Polytechnique Montréal, Department of Civil, Geological, and Mining Engineering
321 Citations
9 h-index
Google Scholar

Prof. Antonios Katsamakas is an Assistant Professor at Polytechnique Montréal specializing in structural and earthquake engineering. His research focuses on seismic protection systems, structural dynamics, and cutting-edge reinforcement techniques. He frequently publishes on seismic isolation and advanced materials, contributing to safer, more resilient structures globally.

Key Publications

2022 44 citations
Experimental investigation of a spherical rubber isolator for use in low income countries
2023 43 citations
Experimental parametric study and phenomenological modeling of a deformable rolling seismic isolator
2022 34 citations
Physical modelling of reinforced concrete at a 1: 40 scale using additively manufactured reinforcement cages
2022 28 citations
Finite element modeling of free‐standing cylindrical columns under seismic excitation
2021 23 citations
A FEM-based model to study the behavior of SRG-strengthened R/C beams

Research Contributions

Developed and experimentally investigated spherical rubber isolators and deformable rolling seismic isolators aimed at low-income countries.
This work promotes affordable seismic protection solutions for vulnerable populations, enhancing earthquake resilience in resource-limited settings.
Implemented physical modeling of reinforced concrete and unreinforced masonry using additively manufactured reinforcement cages and sand-based 3D printing.
Advances in physical modeling techniques improve understanding and testing of structural materials, leading to improved construction methods and safety.
Used finite element modeling to study seismic behavior of free-standing cylindrical columns and strengthened reinforced concrete beams.
These simulations aid in predicting structural response during seismic events, informing safer engineering designs and retrofitting strategies.

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