Symmetry-driven computational framework for metamaterial design

This PhD project aims for an advance in the simulation and design of metamaterials - engineered structures with unique physical properties surpassing natural materials. It aims to develop automated finite element methods to enhance numerical modeling, focusing on precision and efficiency in simulations while enabling predictive design of adaptive systems. The research targets critical defense technologies, including stealth, cloaking, and wave manipulation, with applications spanning multispectral furtivity, dynamic resilience, and active wave modulation, relevant to both defense and civilian contexts.

Metamaterials leverage microstructural periodicity to control electromagnetic, acoustic, or mechanical waves, offering strategic capabilities like broadband signature reduction or shock absorption. Symmetry is central to this work and a key property of periodic structures that governs wave behavior. By exploiting symmetries, the project seeks to optimize computational performance and deepen insights into metamaterial functionality.

The supervising team is pioneering wave propagation methods for periodic structures and associated computational challenges, providing top-tier expertise. Integrating mathematics, computer science, finite element techniques, computer graphics and mechanics, the research addresses complex simulation demands. Potential impacts include stealth coatings for aircrafts, adaptive armors, predictive monitoring techniques, and wave-modulating systems for stealth.

Hosted in a leading research environment, this PhD offers a chance to drive metamaterial innovation with broad implications, collaborating with experts in wave-based computational methods.

Inria is the National Research Institute for Digital Science and Technology. This center for scientific excellence is currently directing the French Digital Programs Agency and is on the frontline of digitalization in Europe while conducting world-class research covering a wide range of disciplines: computer science, mathematics, and simulation software. International and industrial collaborations, ground-breaking research, software development, artificial intelligence, quantum- and cyber technologies and deep tech startups are the DNA of the institute. Inria ranks 16th worldwide at the AI Research ranking while being the number one European institute for frontier research in digital sciences.

Saint-Cyr Coëtquidan Military Academy, located in Guer, Brittany, France, is a prestigious institution under the Ministry of Armed Forces, renowned for training the next generation of military leaders while advancing cutting-edge research in defense technologies. Within its Center for Research (CReC), the academy explores the integration of programming, mathematics, and computer sciences into mechanics, focusing on enhancing the resilience and performance of military systems under extreme conditions. Collaborating with academic and industrial partners, Saint-Cyr Coëtquidan focuses on innovation in areas such as artificial intelligence, simulation, frugal network and advanced materials. This unique blend of military expertise and scientific rigor places the academy as a key player in shaping the future of defense technology across Europe.

This PhD, focused on advancing metamaterial simulation through symmetry analysis, seeks motivated MSc (or soon-to-be) graduates with the following qualifications: Graduation Topics: Ideal candidates have backgrounds in computational mechanics, applied mathematics, and/or advanced scientific computing. Relevant MSc-level curricula include computational mechanics or physics, computer science, or finite element methods. Experience implementing numerical methods in high-level programming languages (e.g., Matlab, Python, Julia) is essential. Academic Excellence: A very good curriculum with top-class grades. Computer Literacy: Proficiency – and interest – in navigating advanced algorithms and theoretical concepts, with outstanding problem-solving capabilities. Citizenship: Candidates must have an EU citizenship, due to the defense-related scope of the project. Enthusiasm for computational modeling, metamaterials, symmetry-driven computational challenges in metamaterial design and innovative defense technologies.

Detailed procedure at : https://team.inria.fr/i4s/files/2025/04/Offer_PhD_AID_Symmetry.pdf