Fully-Funded PhD Position: Digital Fabrication and Mass Timber Engineering
We invite applications for a fully-funded Ph.D. position in Digital Fabrication and Timber Engineering and Construction.
Project Overview:
The successful candidate will work at the intersection of robotic fabrication, structural engineering, and computational mechanics. The project focuses on:
Designing, fabricating, and testing 1:1 scale mass timber load-carrying systems (e.g., interlocking connections, wall–floor systems). This includes:
- Using a stationary 6-axis industrial robotic arm (KUKA KR 210 R3100) for multi-axis machining and fabrication of mass-timber components.
- Conducting multi-scale experimental tests, from connection-scale specimens to component and sub-assembly tests.
- Developing and validating computational and numerical models, including advanced Finite Element (FE) simulations, constitutive modelling of timber and connections, and design recommendations.
The PhD student will join a multidisciplinary environment spanning digital fabrication, mass timber engineering, and structural mechanics, with strong links to industry and leading international academic partners.
The Core Stack and Key Responsabilities:
- 1) Structural Systems: Design and optimization of interlocking and demountable timber connections and load-bearing assemblies using using Rhino 3D and Grasshopper.
- Generate detailed geometric models of test specimens and full-scale assemblies suitable for fabrication and FE modeling.
- 2) Robotic Fabrication: KUKA KR 210 R3100 (6-axis) using KUKA|prc for multi-axis CNC machining of timber.
- Develop, test, and refine multi-axis toolpaths for cutting, milling, and drilling timber elements.
- Carry out material handling and shop-floor logistics for safe and efficient robotic operations.
- 3) Experimental Work: Full-scale and component-scale testing of mass-timber systems and connections using MTS systems.
- 4) Computational Modeling: Continuum FE simulations and constitutive model development in ABAQUS.
- Develop scripts and workflows to automatically generate FE models from CAD geometry.
- Set up and run nonlinear FE analyses, including contact and damage effects.
- Calibrate and validate models using experimental data (load–displacement response, failure modes, etc.)
Required Qualifications:
- Fulfillment of the minimum admission requirements of CivMin’s PhD program,
- A BASc/BSc/MASc/MEng in Engineering Science, Civil/Structural, Mechanical, or Architectural Engineering, Computer Science, or a closely related field.
- Solid knowledge of structural mechanics (e.g., statics, strength of materials, structural analysis; familiarity with timber is an asset).
- Hands-on experience with CNC machines or industrial robots (any platform; KUKA experience is an asset).
- Strong Python programming skills.
- Familiarity with how experimental tests are conducted is an asset
- Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills,
- Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in multidisciplinary academic and industry settings.
What We Offer:
- The opportunity to conduct research at Canada’s #1 engineering school, in a leading research group working on mass timber, digital fabrication, and structural systems.
- Close collaboration with top-ranked global institutions in engineering and design, and strong Canadian industry partnerships, providing real-world, applied research experience.
- Access to state-of-the-art facilities, including an industrial robotic arm for multi-axis timber fabrication and advanced structural testing equipment.
- A competitive funding package for the duration of the PhD.
Start Date:
- As soon as possible (negotiable, subject to admission timelines).
Application Procedure:
Complete the Microsoft Forms application at https://forms.cloud.microsoft/r/FStbFegb5m
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis and will continue to be accepted until the position is filled. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to participate in a multi-stage interview process, including one general and two technical discussions.
Contact:
Aryan Rezaei Rad, Dr. ès Sciences
Department of Civil & Mineral Engineering
University of Toronto
Email: aryan.rad@utoronto.ca
https://sustrucsy.civmin.utoronto.ca/
