Ciência sem Fronteiras (Science Without Borders) DCU PhD Project Template: **Please use one form per project** Please complete & submit to your Head of School by Monday 16th July PI name & contact details: School: Dr. Bryan Mac Donald E: bryan.macdonald@dcu.ie t:+353-1-700846 Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering Research Centre / group affiliation: MEDeng Centre Research group / centre website: www.medeng.dcu.ie PI website / link to CV: http://webpages.dcu.ie/~macdonab/bmacd_cv_2012.pdf Brief summary of PI research / research group / centre activity (2 or 3 lines max): The MEDeng centre develops new knowledge in biomaterials science; experimental, theoretical and computational mechanics; and bio-manufacturing processes. Our work is directed towards the development of improved medical devices and implants. Title & brief description of PhD project (suitable for publication on web): “Development of Intelligent Finite Element Software Using Java” The objective of this project is to produce a cross-platform finite element software that has inherent intelligence. The purpose of this software is to streamline the finite element analysis process by making the software more intuitive. Current software available for finite element analysis is platform dependant and has been built in an ad-hoc manner since the 1970’s. A totally new approach to this software is now required in order to increase productivity and allow for up-skilling of analysts. This project would suit a candidate with an interest in computer programming, finite element analysis and computer aided design. Unique selling points of PhD project in DCU: DCU projects should offer something that’s not available in Brazil – specific equipment, multi-disciplinarity, aspects of structured programme, links with industry, placements, links with other research groups etc. The PI is an internationally recognised expert in teaching of finite element techniques and has published two critically acclaimed textbooks to introduce novices to the area. This project will also draw on expertise from DCU’s school of computing which is internationally renowned for innovation and world class research. Name & contact details for project queries, if different from PI named above: Please indicate the graduates of which disciplines that should apply: Mechanical Engineering Computing Ciência sem Fronteiras / Science Without Borders Priority Area: Please indicate the specific programme priority area under which the proposed PhD project fits- choose only one (tick box): Engineering and other technological areas Pure and Natural Sciences (e.g. mathematics, physics, chemistry) Health and Biomedical Sciences Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) X Aerospace Pharmaceuticals Oil, Gas and Coal Renewable Energy Minerals Biotechnology Nanotechnology and New Materials Technology of prevention and remediation of natural disasters Biodiversity and Bioprospection Marine Sciences Creative Industry New technologies in constructive engineering Please complete