Efficient stochastic dynamics approaches for uncertainty quantification in structural engineering

The ubiquity of uncertainty in computational estimates concerning real-world engineering problems has long been recognized as a topic of considerable importance, gathering the interest from a constantly increasing number of researchers from a vast array of diverse fields worldwide.<br /> <br /> Specifically, in the field of structural engineering the predominant approach for determining, with any preselected level of accuracy, the response/reliability statistics and system fragilities is the Monte Carlo simulation (MCS) method. In this setting, MCS-based approaches have found a widespread application for capturing the inherent stochastic nature of natural hazards (e.g., earthquakes, winds, waves etc) and analyzing structures and systems considering complex nonlinear material behavior. It is worth-mentioning that most contemporary aseismic codes incorporate a stochastic/probabilistic framework for the design of structured facilities, rendering the element of the efficient uncertainty treatment prevalent. MCS-based approaches constitute phenomenologically a rational basis for uncertainty quantification; however, these are accompanied by a considerable computational cost that can reach even to prohibitive levels especially for cases of large scale complex systems.<br /> Over the past five decades considerable effort has been devoted in random vibration analysis of dynamic systems of engineering interest. Clearly, persistent nonlinear stochastic structural dynamics problems faced by engineers in their daily practice are amenable to efficient and comprehensive solutions, harnessing the potential of advances in inelastic random vibration theory.<br /> <br /> The envisaged developments of the proposed project are oriented towards determining efficient pathways to capture uncertainty and imprecision in computational engineering estimates in a realistic form reflecting the nature of the available information as typically appears in practice.<br /> <br /> From a theoretical viewpoint, the proposed project lies in the intersection of structural dynamics, applied mathematics, probability and statistics. On the practical side, the envisioned methods will be liberated by the constraints of traditional approaches, inducing a paradigm shift in the way modern engineering systems and structures are analysed and designed under the presence of uncertainties.<br /> <br />

<p>Formal applications for research degree study should be made online through the&nbsp;<a href="http://www.leeds.ac.uk/rsa/prospective_students/apply/I_want_to_apply.html">University&#39;s website</a>. Please state clearly in the Planned Course of Study that you are applying for <em><strong>PhD Civil Engineering FT</strong></em> and in the research information section&nbsp;that the research degree you wish to be considered for is <em><strong>Efficient stochastic dynamics approaches for uncertainty quantification in structural engineering </strong></em>as well as&nbsp;<a href="https://eps.leeds.ac.uk/civil-engineering/staff/6690/dr-ioannis-p-mitseas">Dr Ioannis P. Mitseas</a>&nbsp;as your proposed supervisor.</p> <p>If English is not your first language, you must provide evidence that you meet the University&#39;s minimum English language requirements (below).</p> <p style="margin-bottom:11px"><em>As an international research-intensive university, we welcome students from all walks of life and from across the world. We foster an inclusive environment where all can flourish and prosper, and we are proud of our strong commitment to student education. Across all Faculties we are dedicated to diversifying our community and we welcome the unique contributions that individuals can bring, and particularly encourage applications from, but not limited to Black, Asian, people who belong to a minority ethnic community, people who identify as LGBT+ and people with disabilities. Applicants will always be selected based on merit and ability.</em></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing">Applications will be considered on an ongoing basis. &nbsp;Potential applicants are strongly encouraged to contact the supervisors for an informal discussion before making a formal application. &nbsp;We also advise that you apply at the earliest opportunity as the application and selection process may close early, should we receive a sufficient number of applications or that a suitable candidate is appointed.</p> <p>Please note that you must provide the following documents in support of your application by the closing date of 1 March 2023 for the Leesd Doctoral Scholarship and 3 April 2023 for Leeds Opportunity Research Scholarship:</p> <ul> <li>Full Transcripts of all degree study or if in final year of study, full transcripts to date</li> <li>Personal Statement outlining your interest in the project</li> <li>CV</li> <li>Funding information:&nbsp; e.g. Leeds Doctoral Scholarship, Leeds Opportunity Research Scholarship, Self-Funded, Name of External Sponsor or any other funding that you are applying for</li> </ul>

Applicants to research degree programmes should normally have at least a first class or an upper second class British Bachelors Honours degree (or equivalent) in an appropriate discipline. The criteria for entry for some research degrees may be higher, for example, several faculties, also require a Masters degree. Applicants are advised to check with the relevant School prior to making an application. Applicants who are uncertain about the requirements for a particular research degree are advised to contact the School or Graduate School prior to making an application.

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<p style="margin-bottom:12px"><strong>Self-Funded or externally sponsored students are welcome to apply.</strong></p> <p><strong>UK</strong>&nbsp;&ndash;&nbsp;The&nbsp;<a href="https://phd.leeds.ac.uk/funding/209-leeds-doctoral-scholarships-2022">Leeds Doctoral Scholarships</a>&nbsp;(Closing date: 1 March 2023) and <a href="https://phd.leeds.ac.uk/funding/234-leeds-opportunity-research-scholarship-2022">Leeds Opportunity Research Scholarship</a>&nbsp;(Closing date: 3 April 2023) are available to UK applicants. <a href="https://phd.leeds.ac.uk/funding/60-alumni-bursary">Alumni Bursary</a> is available to graduates of the University of Leeds. Please note that there is a separate application process for the Leeds Doctoral Scholarship and Leeds Opportunity Research Scholarship.</p> <p><strong>Non-UK</strong> &ndash;&nbsp;The&nbsp;<a href="https://phd.leeds.ac.uk/funding/73-leeds-marshall-scholarship">Leeds Marshall Scholarship</a>&nbsp;is available to support US citizens. <a href="https://phd.leeds.ac.uk/funding/60-alumni-bursary">Alumni Bursary</a> is available to graduates of the University of Leeds.</p> <p><strong>Important:</strong>&nbsp; Any costs associated with your arrival at the University of Leeds to start your PhD including flights, immigration health surcharge/medical insurance and Visa costs are <strong>not</strong> covered under this studentship.</p> <p>Please refer to the <a href="https://www.ukcisa.org.uk/">UKCISA</a> website for information regarding Fee Status for Non-UK Nationals.</p>

<p>For further information about your application,&nbsp;please contact Doctoral College Admissions<br /> e:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:phd@engineering.leeds.ac.uk" title="Email School of Civil Engineering">phd@engineering.leeds.ac.uk</a>, t: +44 (0)113 343 5057.</p> <p>For further information about this project and informal enquiries, please contact Dr Ioannis P. Mitseas<br /> e: <a href="mailto:E.Garcia-Taengua@leeds.ac.uk">I.Mitseas@leeds.ac.uk</a></p>