A European Doctoral network on Advanced Meta-materials and Meta-Structures for Adaptable, Resilient and Sustainable renewable energy power plants
Motivation and scope
Funded by the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (Horizon Europe, Grant Agreement No. 101227175), Met2Adapt aims to recruit 16 PhD candidates who will be employed by one of the 10 partner institutions across Europe.
Met2Adapt puts forward an ambitious research and training plan that will foster a new generation of researchers able to design and deliver sustainable meta-materials for vibration mitigation, self-aware meta-components and eventually carbon-efficient yet safe meta-structures for the renewable energy sector. The focal point of this research will be the deployment of custom-fit solutions for infrastructure that is critical to the European energy resilience, i.e. offshore and onshore wind farms, and wave-energy converters.
Key to our training methodology is our firm commitment on establishing an active and student-centred ‘training by research’ environment, which will put the Doctoral Candidates in charge of their training process. On top of the supervision arrangements provided by the Met2Adapt academic beneficiaries, the DCs will join a thriving training hub comprising formal courses, dedicated training weeks, academic and industrial secondments, and a dedicated industrial mentorship program.
Each of the 16 candidates will conduct research in one of the three main subject areas of Met2Adapt:
(i) Meta-material development
(ii) AI driven multi-scale and multi-physics modelling
(iii) Autonomous monitoring technologies
(iv) Prognosis and Uncertainty Quantification.
The candidates will work together within the Met2Adapt network and engage in multi-disciplinary training-by-research to develop technology in close collaboration with end-users around the world.
The Met2Adapt consortium comprises 10 beneficiaries and 9 Associated Partners across 9 countries in Europe and the USA.
For specific openings and position requirements see below and follow the application procedure described in each case. Individual application deadlines apply. We especially encourage members of underrepresented groups to apply.
Eligibility requirements and Mobility rules
Applicants must not already have successfully defended your doctoral thesis, or be in possession of a doctoral degree, at the date of the recruitment.
Applicants must not have resided or carried out their main activity (work, studies, etc.) in the potential host country for more than 12 months in the 36 months immediately before the date of recruitment.
Salary
The MSCA Doctoral Network fellowship is for three years and provides generous remuneration in line with the EC rules for grant holders. Effective funding amounts and total appointment duration (3 or 4 years) vary based on host country and localinstitution regulations.
Secondments
All Doctoral Candidates will be seconded to industrial or academic associated partners for a period of up to 6 months. Secondments are tailored to the individual requirements of each project.
We look forward to your applications!
DC1 Resolving failure modes in complex composite components
Fusing physics and machine learning, this project aims to develop an efficient and versatile multiscale computational method for simulating damage evolution in composite materials accounting for the challenging case of complex damage patterns which are prevalent in meta-materials. The successful candidate will have a high-scoring Masters degree in Mechanical, Civil, Materials, Simulation or similar Engineering field. This funding call is open to all EU and International applicants.
The ideal candidate has strong analytical and quantitative skills in computational solid mechanics, fracture mechanics and finite element modelling, as well as programming experience. Prior exposure to machine-learning-based surrogate modelling is considered an asset. Good written and spoken English skills are required. We value good interpersonal skills, the ability to work in a diverse, multidisciplinary and international team, readiness to present results at international conferences, and the willingness to spend several months at partner universities and industrial partners within the project.
Host: National Technical University of Athens, Greece
Awarding PhD entity: National Technical University of Athens, Greece
Applications start: 20/12/2025
Application deadline: 2/2/2026
Earliest project start date: 1/5/2026
How to Apply: Please e-mail Prof. Savvas Triantafyllou at savtri@mail.ntua.gr also attaching an updated CV, research statement and official transcripts.
DC2 Coupled chemo-mechanical interactions leading to fatigue damage in corrosive environments
DC2 will work on the development of a high fidelity numerical framework to resolve crack initiation and propagation in composite components fitted with meta-materials operating in highly corrosive environments. The successful candidate will have a high-scoring Masters degree in Mechanical, Civil, Materials, Simulation or similar Engineering field. This funding call is open to all EU and International applicants.
The ideal candidate has strong analytical and quantitative skills in computational solid mechanics, fracture mechanics and finite element modelling, as well as programming experience. Prior exposure to machine-learning-based surrogate modelling is considered an asset. Good written and spoken English skills are required. We value good interpersonal skills, the ability to work in a diverse, multidisciplinary and international team, readiness to present results at international conferences, and the willingness to spend several months at partner universities and industrial partners within the project.
Host: National Technical University of Athens, Greece
Awarding PhD entity: National Technical University of Athens, Greece
Applications start: 20/12/2025
Application deadline: 2/2/2026
Earliest project start date: 1/5/2026
How to Apply: Please e-mail Prof. Savvas Triantafyllou at savtri@mail.ntua.gr also attaching an updated CV, research statement and official transcripts.
DC3 Multiscale Modelling and Machine Learning-Based Design of Innovative Vibration-Attenuating Metapanels
The primary objective of this project is to create high-performance, reusable metamaterial panel systems that achieve superior vibration and noise attenuation while remaining cost-effective and compatible with sustainable construction practices. The successful candidate will have a high-scoring Masters degree in Mechanical, Civil, Materials, Simulation or similar Engineering field. This funding call is open to all EU and International applicants.
The ideal candidate has strong analytical and quantitative skills in computational solid mechanics, structural dynamics and finite element modelling, as well as programming experience in MATLAB and/or Python. Prior exposure to vibration control, wave propagation, metamaterials or machine-learning-based surrogate modelling is considered an asset. Good written and spoken English skills are required. We value good interpersonal skills, the ability to work in a diverse, multidisciplinary and international team, readiness to present results at international conferences, and the willingness to spend several months at partner universities and industrial partners within the project.
Host: National Technical University of Athens, Greece
Awarding PhD entity: National Technical University of Athens, Greece
Applications start: 01/02/2026
Application deadline: 01/04/2026
Earliest project start date: 1/10/2026
How to Apply: Please e-mail at Prof. Ioannis Kalogeris at ikalogeris@mail.ntua.gr also attaching an updated CV, research statement and official transcripts.
DC4 Optimal devices, methodologies and digital twin models for the use of metastructural devices in Operational Wind Turbines
We are seeking a passionate, curious, and enthusiastic new team membercommitted to addressing climate change by advancing renewable energy systems. We are looking for someone who thrives on solving complex problems, isn’t afraid to ask challenging questions, and possesses the determination to pursue innovative solutions in a rapidly evolving field. The ideal applicant will have a strong background in engineering or applied mathematics / computer science, with a keen interest in scientific programming, structural analysis, machine learning and data science. Your curiosity drives you to explore and understand the intricacies of wind energy systems, and your self-motivation pushes you to expand the boundaries of what is currently possible for a better tomorrow.
The scholarship for the PhD degree is subject to academic approval. For Academic year 2026/2027, PhD applications at UPorto can be submitted from March to June 2025.
Host: Nadara, Department of Innovation, AI, Data & Analytics, Portugal
Awarding PhD entity: University of Porto, Portugal
Applications start: 01/02/2026
Application deadline: 31/03/2026
Earliest project start date: 1/09/2026
Application Link Link available at Offer Starting Day 1 Feb 2026
DC5 Enhanced Wave Bandgaps in Offshore Cylindrical Elements Embedding Linear and Nonlinear Topological Resonators
DC5 will work on delivering enchaned designs for the wave protection of floating tanks. The research activity will combine linear analysis by the wave method, nonlinear analysis by the harmonic balance or multiple scales, linear and nonlinear dynamic simulations, topological metamaterials and optimization, taking into account uncertainties and experimental demonstrations on small-size cylinder prototypes.
We are seeking a passionate, curious, and enthusiastic new team membercommitted to addressing climate change by advancing renewable energy systems. We are looking for someone who thrives on solving complex problems, isn’t afraid to ask challenging questions, and possesses the determination to pursue innovative solutions in a rapidly evolving field.
Host: University of Trento, Italy
Awarding PhD entity: University of Trento, Italy
Applications start: 16/01/2026
Application deadline: 20/03/2026
Earliest project start date: 1/11/2026
Informal inquiries: For informal inquiries you may contact Prof. Francesco Dal Corso at francesco.dalcorso@unitn.it attaching also a CV
How to Apply: A link will be provided when the position is open for applications.
DC6 Self-tuning variable length systems for the vibration reduction of wind blades
The project aims at delivering novel methods for simulating the complex nonlinear dynamics of Variable-Length Systems (VLS) and further investigate the optimum number and placement of the VLS along the wind turbine blade and the evaluation of blade vibration reduction capabilities in view of enhanced blade high-cycle fatigue performance.
We are seeking a passionate, curious, and enthusiastic new team membercommitted to addressing climate change by advancing renewable energy systems. We are looking for someone who thrives on solving complex problems, isn’t afraid to ask challenging questions, and possesses the determination to pursue innovative solutions in a rapidly evolving field.
Host: University of Trento, Italy
Awarding PhD entity: University of Trento, Italy
Applications start: 16/01/2026
Application deadline: 20/03/2026
Earliest project start date: 1/11/2026
Informal inquiries: For informal inquiries you may contact Prof. Francesco Dal Corso at francesco.dalcorso@unitn.it attaching also a CV
How to Apply: A link will be provided when the position is open for applications.
DC7 Optimal displacement of meta-structures for enhanced renewable energy harvesting
This PhD project will focus on the design and fundamental physics of periodic (resonant) structures that are fully or partially submerged and located near the shoreline, where shallow-water wavefronts dominate. These engineered structures—potentially varying in geometry and material (e.g., concrete cylinders)—will be arranged in specific patterns to produce targeted collective dynamic responses, analogous to wave lenses or cloaking devices, with the explicit goal of enhancing the energy extraction capability of Wave Energy Converters (WECs).
We are seeking a passionate, curious, and enthusiastic new team membercommitted to addressing climate change by advancing renewable energy systems. We are looking for someone who thrives on solving complex problems, isn’t afraid to ask challenging questions, and possesses the determination to pursue innovative solutions in a rapidly evolving field.
Host: University of Bologna, Italy
Awarding PhD entity: University of Bologna, Italy
Applications start: 01/03/2026
Application deadline: 01/06/2026
Earliest project start date: 1/11/2026
Informal inquiries: For informal inquiries you may contact Prof. Renata Archetti at renata.archetti@unibo.it, Prof. Antonio Palermo at antonio.palermo6@unibo.it , and Prof. Alessandro Marzani at alessandro.marzani@unibo.it attaching also a CV.
How to Apply: A link will be provided when the position is open for applications.
DC8 On the combined use of WECs and meta-structures for fatigue-life extension of existing offshore structures
This PhD project aims to develop innovative strategies for reducing vibrations in offshore structures by attenuating wave loads and mitigating dynamic responses induced by wind and sea states. The overarching goal is to extend the operational lifespan of existing offshore assets through the reduction of fatigue-induced stresses.
We are seeking a motivated and talented PhD candidate with a Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Offshore Engineering, Physics, or a closely related discipline. The ideal candidate is passionate about structural dynamics, vibration mitigation, wave–structure interaction. A strong background or interest in fluid–structure interaction, or metamaterials will be highly appreciated. Proficiency in MATLAB and/or Python is required, as the research will involve numerical modeling, simulation, and data analysis. Experience with finite element modeling and vibration laboratory testing will be considered a valuable asset. The successful candidate will join a multidisciplinary research team working at the interface between offshore engineering, metamaterials, and wave energy technologies. The project offers the opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research, combining theory, computation, and experimentation. Enthusiasm for research, together with the ability to work both independently and collaboratively, are essential qualities for this position.
Host: University of Bologna, Italy
Awarding PhD entity: University of Bologna, Italy
Applications start: 01/03/2026
Application deadline: 01/06/2026
Earliest project start date: 1/11/2026
Informal inquiries: For informal inquiries you may contact Prof. Renata Archetti at renata.archetti@unibo.it and Prof. Antonio Palermo at antonio.palermo6@unibo.it attaching also a CV.
How to Apply: A link will be provided when the position is open for applications.
DC9 Modelling of the dynamic response for offshore wind farms
The combination of a long coastline, shallow water, and offshore wind makes the UK one of the best locations in the world for wind power. As of 2023, the UK has over 11,000 wind turbines generating 30 GW of power, which accounts for almost 30% of the UK electricity supply. The UK Government has committed to increase the offshore capacity to 50 GW by 2030. Despite these significant benefits and enthusiasm for wind power, there are some serious challenges, which have become apparently in the last two decades 1) Clusters of turbines can produce powerful standing waves, in both air and seawater, severely affecting wildlife and radar and sonar operations. 2) Wind turbines are gyroscopic systems that possess highly complex chiral vibrational modes. DC9 will develop novel mathematical models to predict the dynamic phenomena arising in offshore wind farms and further model the acoustic waves generated by individual, and clusters of, wind turbines to help quantify the effect on wildlife, including birds, marine mammals, and fish.
Applicants should hold, or expect to achieve, at least a 2.1 honours degree or a master’s (or international equivalent) in a relevant mathematical sciences or engineering related discipline. English language requirements - One of the following (or equivalent); IELTS - 6.5 overall, with no component below 5.5; TOEFL - 88 overall, with minimum scores of listening 17, writing 17, reading 17 and speaking 19; Pearson PTE Academic - 61 overall, with no component below 59; National of majority English-speaking country. A background in continuum mechanics, the analysis of partial differential equations, and numerical methods and a first class degree in mathematical sciences are desirable.
Host: University of Liverpool, UK
Awarding PhD entity: University of Liverpool, UK
Applications start: 16/12/2025
Application deadline: 02/03/2026
Earliest project start date: 1/10/2026
Informal inquiries: For informal inquiries you may contact contact Prof. Daniel Colquitt at d.colquitt@liverpool.ac.uk attaching also a CV.
Application Link You may apply here referencing the project PhD in Modelling of the dynamic response for offshore wind farms
DC10 Development of deep learning-based surrogate models for predicting failure in meta-material composites
This project offers the opportunity to tackle one of the most exciting challenges in modern engineering, i.e. understanding and predicting how advanced composite materials become damaged. 1. Develop a high-fidelity simulation framework to model the initiation and growth of damage in complex meta-material composites under realistic loading conditions. 2. Build a scientific machine learning surrogate capable of reproducing and predicting unseen damage and fracture scenarios within seconds once trained and 3. Demonstrate how these intelligent models can be used for real-time structural monitoring and reliability assessment in applications such as wind turbine components.
We are looking for motivated and curious students to join a cutting-edge PhD project at the intersection of fracture mechanics, numerical methods, computational modelling, and scientific machine learning with a background on engineering, mathematics, or physical sciences and eager to apply their skills to solve real-world problems.
Host: University of Warwick, UK
Awarding PhD entity: University of Warwick, UK
Applications start: 01/01/2026
Application deadline: 31/07/2026
Earliest project start date: 5/10/2026
Informal inquiries: For informal inquiries you may contact contact Prof. Emmanouil Kakouris at Emmanouil.Kakouris@warwick.ac.uk attaching also a CV.
How to Apply: A link will be provided when the position is open for applications.
DC11 GenAI-aided reliability assessment of mechanical metamaterials in offshore wind and wave energy applications
This project aims to develop a GenAI modelling framework to quantify the structural reliability of wind and wave energy devices made of metamaterials (MMs) and other advanced materials, involving material and geometrical uncertainties. The resulting reliability framework will be computationally tested with use real cases in offshore wind and wave energy converters under real sea conditions.
We are looking for applicants with a proven excellent track record in scientific programming and an exceptional command of English language.
Host: University of Granada, Spain
Awarding PhD entity: University of Granada, Spain
Applications start: 01/12/2025
Application deadline: 15/01/2026
Earliest project start date: 01/03/
How to Apply: Please apply by emailing directly at Prof. Jalon mljalon@ugr.es and Prof. Chiachio jchiachio@ugr.es and submit a single pdf file including a CV and proof of English qualifications.
DC12 Developing elasto-acoustic metamaterials for noise and vibration attenuation in wind turbine blades
The project aims to develop and optimize elasto-acoustic metamaterials with phase cancellation in order to simultaneously achieve vibration and noise attenuation in wind farms. The successful candidate will have a high-scoring Masters degree in Mechanical, Civil, Materials, Simulation or similar Engineering field. This funding call is open to all EU and International applicants.
We are looking for applicants with a proven excellent track record in scientific programming and an exceptional command of English language.
Host: KU Leuven, Belgium
Awarding PhD entity: KU Leuven, Belgium
Applications start: 20/10/2025
Application deadline: 30/06/2026
Earliest project start date: 01/07/2026
Informal inquiries: Informal inquiries may be directed to Prof. Dimitrios Chronopoulos at dimitrios.chronopoulos@kuleuven.be
Application Link You may apply here and also send your CV at dimitrios.chronopoulos@kuleuven.be
DC13 - Risk-Based Maintenance Planning for Wind Turbine Components
DTU invites applications for a PhD position within the MET2ADAPT Doctoral Network, focusing on the development of an advanced framework for risk-based inspection and maintenance planning of wind turbine components. The project will examine degradation mechanisms such as fatigue cracking, erosion and environmentally driven damage, and will integrate structural modelling, SHM measurements and SCADA data into a unified digital-twin environment. The candidate will develop methods for estimating remaining useful life, identifying optimal inspection intervals and supporting maintenance decisions in real time. Close collaboration with NADARA will enable the validation of the developed tools using operational data from large wind portfolios. The PhD includes research stays at ETH Zürich and NADARA, offering exposure to both academic and industrial practices in O&M and monitoring. Candidates should hold a relevant Master’s degree, demonstrate strong analytical and programming skills, and comply with the MSCA mobility rule. The position offers a competitive MSCA fellowship and full participation in the network’s international training programme.
Host: Technical University of Denmark (DTU), Department of Wind and Energy Systems
Awarding PhD entity: Technical University of Denmark (DTU), Department of Wind and Energy Systems
Applications start: 20/12/2025
Application deadline: 02/02/2026
Earliest project start date: 01/05/2026
How to Apply: Please e-mail Prof. Athanasios Kolios at atko@dtu.dk also attaching an updated CV, research statement and official transcripts.
DC14 - Doctoral Candidate in Uncertainty Quantification and Technology Qualification for Advanced Wind Turbine Components
DTU is seeking an excellent doctoral candidate to join the MET2ADAPT network and develop an uncertainty-quantification and technology-qualification framework for next-generation wind turbine components enhanced with meta-materials. The project will analyse how uncertainties linked to materials, stochastic loading, environmental exposures and manufacturing tolerances influence structural reliability and lifetime predictions. The candidate will create probabilistic models that support certification processes, inform design margins and integrate seamlessly with digital twin platforms for continuous reliability assessment. Collaboration with academic partners and NADARA will ensure that the developed methods address both scientific and industrial needs. The position includes secondments (indicatively) at Columbia University, the University of Trento and the University of Granada, providing high-level training in stochastic modelling, nonlinear dynamics and reliability analysis. Applicants should hold a Master’s degree in engineering, mathematics, physics or data science, possess strong computational skills and meet the MSCA mobility requirement. The successful candidate will receive a competitive MSCA fellowship and benefit from extensive international training opportunities.
Host: Technical University of Denmark (DTU), Department of Wind and Energy Systems
Awarding PhD entity: Technical University of Denmark (DTU), Department of Wind and Energy Systems
Applications start: 20/12/2025
Application deadline: 02/02/2026
Earliest project start date: 01/05/2026
How to Apply: Please e-mail Prof. Athanasios Kolios at atko@dtu.dk also attaching an updated CV, research statement and official transcripts.
DC15 Meta-structures with autonomous sensing capacities
DC15 will primarily focus on the development of metamaterials-based structures and devices that through vibration energy harvesting can exploit structural vibration to power sensors and data communication to the base. This objective will be addressed by 1) Elaborating on the vibration harvesting technology, depending on the vibration frequency and amplitude. This is highly application dependent, for instance wind turbine generate large amplitude long period vibration. 2) Designing of a metamaterial that shall guide and amplify the vibrations where the harvesting device is located to increase the exploitable vibrational energy. The harvester for instance can be mounted on a device that exploits rainbow focusing properties. Several basic mechanical designs can obtain this, beams, frames and plates.
Applicants must hold a M.Sc. Diploma or equivalent in civil, mechanical or electrical engineering, geosciences, physics, applied mathematics, or related fields, and be at the beginning of their research career. Principal qualifications include strong analytical and quantitative skills in computational solid mechanics, nonlinear dynamics, data analysis, mechatronic, and interest in laboratory-based experimentation and engineering applications. A solid knowledge of English as the spoken and written language of work is mandatory. We expect good interpersonal skills, the ability to thrive in a diverse, multidisciplinary environment, ability to present work in international conference, as well as the willingness to spend a number of months working with project collaborators at partner universities in this project. This doctoral student position is offered for 4 years with the earliest starting date in May 2026. Primary advisor is Prof. E. Chatzi (ETH Zurich), co-advisors are Dr. Vasileios Ntertimanis (ETH Zurich) and Dr. Andrea Colombi (Zurich University of Applied Sciences, ZHAW).
Host: ETHZ, Switzerland
Awarding PhD entity: ETHZ, Switzerland
Applications start: 01/02/2026
Application deadline: 31/04/2026
Earliest project start date: 04/05/2026
Informal inquiries: Questions regarding the position should be directed by email to be directed by email to Dr. Andrea Colombi (andrea.colombi@zhaw.ch). Please do not send applications via email. For further information please visit our website at https://chatzi.ibk.ethz.ch/about-us/open-positions.html
Application Link You may apply here
DC16 Active meta-structures for enhanced damage detection and localization on wind turbine blades
DC16 will elaborate on the damage detection and localization problem of wind turbine (WT) blades. WT blades are amenable to quite complex mechanical and environmental loading over their life cycle. Among other failure mechanisms (such as operational errors and manufacturing defects) surface damage and structural cracks are common. While they, in general, do not reduce the operating functionality of the blade, damaged/cracked surfaces certainly reduce the aerodynamic performance and, upon growing, may lead to structural damage. Therefore, early detection and localization is essential.
Applicants must hold a M.Sc. Diploma or equivalent in civil, mechanical or electrical engineering, geosciences, physics, applied mathematics, or related fields, and be at the beginning of their research career. Principal qualifications include strong analytical and quantitative skills in computational solid mechanics, nonlinear dynamics, data analysis, mechatronic, and interest in laboratory-based experimentation and engineering applications. A solid knowledge of English as the spoken and written language of work is mandatory. We expect good interpersonal skills, the ability to thrive in a diverse, multidisciplinary environment, ability to present work in international conference, as well as the willingness to spend a number of months working with project collaborators at partner universities in this project.
Host: ETHZ, Switzerland
Awarding PhD entity: ETHZ, Switzerland
Applications start: 01/02/2026
Application deadline: 31/04/2026
Earliest project start date: 04/05/2026
Informal inquiries: Questions regarding the position should be directed by email to be directed by email to Dr. Vasileios Ntertimanis (v.derti@ibk.baug.ethz.ch). Please do not send applications via email. For further information please visit our website at https://chatzi.ibk.ethz.ch/about-us/open-positions.html
Application Link You may apply here
– Met2Adapt is funded under the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) call HORIZON-MSCA-2024-DN-01, Grant agreement ID: 101227175. –
