SHORT DESCRIPTION

The candidate will participate in an industrial research project for the aeronautical sector aiming at exploiting the benefits of X-ray computed tomography (XCT) applied to the characterization of additive manufactured (AM) complex jet engine components with demanding thermomechanical properties. The project required the enhancement of the capabilities of XCT technique by applying artificial intelligence to the reconstruction of the volumes, noise reduction and defect segmentation, classification and analysis.

The candidate is expected to have a solid background in programming, artificial intelligence and data processing.


OTHER DETAILS

Ref. num. 2023-FS-R1 R2-95

Research Engineer in Data Analysis of Additive Manufacturing


IMDEA Materials Institute is a public research organization founded in 2007 by Madrid’s regional government to carry out research of excellence in Material Science and Engineering by attracting talent from all over the world to work in an international and multidisciplinary environment. IMDEA Materials has grown rapidly since its foundation and currently includes more than 120 researchers from 22 nationalities and has become one of the leading research centers in materials in Europe which has received the María de Maeztu seal of excellence from the Spanish government. The research activities have been focused on the areas of materials for transport, energy, and health care and the Institute has state-of-the-art facilities for processing, characterization and simulation of advanced materials.

More information can be found at our webpage.


Description

XCT is one of the most powerful techniques for defect assessments of additive manufacturing materials as it comprises a high resolution for the typical defect types in AM, a large volume of inspection which allows detecting thousands of defects at once, provides three-dimensional information of the inspected material and it is non-destructive. Despite of the advantages, XCT is a relatively slow, and therefore costly, technique and it is limited to imaging of small components due to the X-ray absorption, and noise and artefacts generated in the images. Common data limitations during XCT experiments include: i) acquiring only a limited number of projections; ii) noise in the projection images; and iii) acquiring projections for a limited angular range. Thus, the main activity of the candidate within the project will correspond to data analysis, and the development and implementation of AI-based tools to enhance and accelerate XCT pre- and post-processing.


Requirements


The position is most appropriate for recent master's graduates (or soon to graduate) in fields related to machine learning, computer science, material science or related disciplines with excellent academic credentials, and an interest in working on industrial research in the aeronautical sector.

Experience or knowledge in AI applied to XCT images is highly valuable. Close interactions with industrial stakeholders are expected; therefore, the ability to work as part of a team is essential.

Programming knowledge in any language, preferably Python for compatibility with already developed work.

Knowledge of machine learning, data analysis, image and signal treatment.

Full proficiency in English, oral and written, is mandatory.

The first contract will be for one year, but the position is expected to be renewed yearly up to a total of 3.5 years.

Interested candidates should submit their Curriculum Vitae, a brief cover letter addressing their motivation, as well as academic credentials.


Conditions

- Full-time contract including social security coverage.

- The post will remain active and open until filled

- Expected start date: September 2023


Applications are processed upon reception. The position might be closed once ten working days have passed since publication, so we encourage early application.

The working language of the Institute is English. Full command of the English language is required in all positions.

WHAT YOU WILL FIND AT IMDEA:

Stimulating environment where you can grow professionally.

IMDEA Materials Institute is committed to equal opportunities, diversity and the promotion of a healthy work environment and work-life balance. Female applicants are encouraged to apply to our research and technical positions. See our Gender Equality Plan here and our Code of Ethics here.

Besides on-the-job technical training, IMDEA Materials Institute is committed to training the Institute’s scientists and staff in “soft” or transversal skills. See the available training here.

Meet some of our alumni to see what it is like to work with us.