Research Masters (MEngSc) in Civil / Geotechnical Engineering at UCC

Project title: Monitoring and modelling of mechanical behaviour of Dublin Tunnel

Supervision team: Zili Li (UCC) and Miles Friedman (Transportation Infrastructure Ireland (TII) )

Project description:

This project plans to deploy an innovative wireless sensor network (WSN) at Dublin Tunnel for monitoring the development of tunnel deterioration and deformation over time. The monitoring field data will evaluate long-term tunnel structural condition, aiming to save tunnel inspection and maintenance cost. In parallel, a 3D finite element (FE) analysis will be conducted to model ageing structural performance of Dublin Tunnel in the long term. The computed results from the 3D tunnel model will be tested against the tunnel behaviour obtained from WSN data analysis. The validated 3D FE model will evaluate different 3D tunnel deformation modes and predict the long-term behaviour of Dublin Tunnel for the next decades. Under the Spoke Research Programme of geohazard assessment and geotechnical engineering, this project will evaluate the effect of time-dependent ground condition on the long-term tunnel behaviour, and advance the monitoring technologies of large-scale infrastructure.

Position Description: This two-year full-time Master’s by research (MEngSc) position is funded through the new Geohazard and Geotechnical Engineering spoke of Irish Centre for Research in Applied Geosciences (iCRAG). The successful candidate will be registered at University College Cork, starting as soon as possible in early Spring 2019. The Master’s stipend is €18,000 per annum, with a contribution to EU fees of €5,500 per annum.

Candidate Experience: The candidate should have a minimum 2.1 in an honours Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, or an equivalent standard from an overseas university. Some experience in numerical modelling and wireless sensor network and for civil engineering works and in particular for underground conditions would be an advantage.

Application: Please e-mail a CV (max. 2 pages) and a cover letter outlining your experience and motivation to Dr. Zili Li (zili.li@ucc.ie). Intended start date is April 2019.