The PhD project funded by this research scholarship is part of an Australian Research Council Discovery Project and to support a full-time PhD student to undertake cutting-edge research in Development of an Advanced Non-contact Ultrasonic Inspection System for Structural Safety Inspection

The reliable detection of early-stage damage remains a critical challenge in structural health monitoring across multiple industries. Although ultrasonic guided wave methods have emerged as promising diagnostic tools, existing systems largely rely on contact-based transducers that require physical coupling and have limited applicability in challenging environments or for structures with complex geometries. These conventional approaches often cannot provide the necessary sensitivity for early damage detection in field conditions.

This project focuses on the development and optimization of an advanced non-contact ultrasonic inspection system capable of generating and detecting high-quality ultrasonic signals without physical contact or coupling media. The research will encompass the design of robust ultrasonic excitation and measurement techniques, integration of advanced control systems, and implementation of signal processing methods to ensure precise and repeatable inspections. The expected outcomes will be a fully functional non-contact inspection system with enhanced defect detection capabilities, specifically designed for deployment in demanding environments such as high-temperature applications, restricted-access areas, or structures with complex surface geometries. The system's performance will be validated through rigorous testing on representative industrial components under realistic operating conditions.

Research Team and Environment:

The student will work in a vibrant, and multi-disciplinary team comprising of experts from School of Architecture and Civil Engineering, and School of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering. During the PhD study, the student will be supported by well-established supervisors, experienced early-career researchers, and senior PhD students within a supportive research environment. The findings from this project have the potential to revolutionise non-destructive inspection for structures with challenging conditions.

Eligibility: 

Applicants must be Australian citizens, permanent residents of Australia, or international students who are acceptable candidates for a PhD degree at the University of Adelaide. Applicants must hold an Honours-level qualification (First Class) or equivalent in engineering fields. 

The following skillset and experience will be advantageous:

• First Class Honours or Masters degree in Civil/Mechanical/Electrical Engineering
• Skills in analytical and numerical modelling of ultrasonic waves
• Experience in experimental studies of ultrasonic waves
• Good communication and problem-solving skills
• Knowledge in data analytics is desirable

Stipend: 

The scholarship will be for 3.5 years and has a stipend of $35,300 (indexed annually) per annum. It is likely to be tax exempt, subject to Taxation Office approval. 

Enquiries: 

Contact Person: Prof (Alex) Ching Tai Ng

School/Discipline of:  School of Architecture and Civil Engineering

Email: alex.ng@adelaide.edu.au  

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Expression of interest 

Expressions of interest should be submitted to Professor (Alex) Ching Tai Ng [alex.ng@adelaiade.edu.au] with the name of scholarship in the subject heading. Please ensure you include all of the following documents:

• Evidence of Australian or New Zealand citizenship, or Australian permanent resident status (if applicable)
• Degree certificates (testamurs)
• Academic transcripts
• Translations of non-English documentation
• Evidence of English language proficiency
• Curriculum vitae