GNIG – Gruppo Nazionale di Ingegneria Geotecnica

Dr. Davide Noè Gorini, Assistant Professor at the University of Trento, is seeking a highly motivated PhD student to join his research group on Quantum Computing for Civil Engineering Problems.

The successful candidate will contribute to the development of a novel Quantum-integrated framework for the nonlinear dynamic analysis of civil engineering structures, explicitly accounting for Thermo-Hydro-Mechanical (THM) coupling in Soil-Structure Interaction (SSI) problems. The resulting framework will enable high-fidelity multi-physics dynamic simulations of complex SSI systems beyond the limits of classical computational approaches. As a benchmark application, the framework will support the development of high-resolution seismic digital twins of CERN underground infrastructure complex hosting the Large Hadron Collider (LHC), its injectors and experiments.

The ideal candidate should have a strong background in Computational Mechanics. Knowledge of Quantum Algorithms and Computing, Quantum Information and Finite Element Analysis is highly desirable. Experience with tools such as OpenSees, ABAQUS, MATLAB/Simulink or Python is particularly valued. More broadly, candidates with advanced programming skills are encouraged to apply.

This highly multidisciplinary project will greatly benefit from a strong collaboration with the European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN, Switzerland) and international partners. As such, the PhD program offers the opportunity to spend a research period abroad, during which the selected candidate will work closely with experts in the field.

Candidate Profile
Applicants are expected to demonstrate:

• Master’s degree in Geotechnical or Structural Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Applied Physics or Applied Mathematics.
• Background in Computational Mechanics and programming.
• Experience with the analysis of dynamic problems.
• Advanced level of English and collaborative skills.

Contract

• Position: Fully funded PhD studentship
• Duration: three years
• Location: Department of Civil, Environmental and Mechanical Engineering, University of Trento, Trento, Italy
• Start date: November 2026
• End date: October 2029

Application process
The official call is expected to open in July 2026, with a deadline in mid-August 2026.
In advance of the call, interested applicants are kindly invited to submit the following preliminary materials to Dr. Davide Noè Gorini (davidenoe.gorini@unitn.it) by 15 June 2026:

1. Cover Letter – A formal introduction explaining your interest in the position and how your background aligns with the research (no more than two pages).
2. Curriculum Vitae – Detailing your academic background, research experience, publications, and industry experience.
3. List of References – Names and contact information for individuals (no more than three) who would provide letters of recommendation upon request.
4. List of Published Papers (if applicable) – Include journal or conference publications.
5. English Proficiency Test Scores – IELTS or TOEFL scores, if applicable.
   

Should you require any additional information, do not hesitate to reach out at davidenoe.gorini@unitn.it