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151-9908-00L 4 Credits DR D-MATL , D-BAUG , D-MAVT

Proposal Writing in Solid Mechanics Research

Lecturers & Examiners: Prof. Dr. Dennis Kochmann, Dr. Claire Elizabeth Griesbach
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-06-01 11:33:17

Abstract

Participants are introduced to various experimental and computational research methods in solid mechanics—ranging from the nanoscale to the macroscale—and trained in the process of writing and evaluating research proposals in this field.

Objective

This course is designed to fulfill three main objectives: 1) Introduce participants to various research methods in solid mechanics, 2) Train participants to envision, write, and evaluate research proposals, and 3) Stimulate cross-disciplinary collaborations—especially promoting the effective integration of experiments and simulations to answer scientific questions.

Content

1. Proposal writing: a) Components of successful proposals, b) The research funding landscape, c) Writing using the "Reader's Perspective" approach, d) Developing objectives, work packages, and timelines, e) Figure creation, f) Evaluating proposals; 2) Atomic-to-nano scale research methods: a) TEM and atom probe tomography, b) Molecular statics/dynamics and DFT, c) Specialized modeling approaches, including scale-bridging methods; 3) Nano-to-micro scale research methods: a) Microstructural characterization (SEM, FIB, EBSD, EDS, AFM/PFM), b) Micromechanical measurements (in-situ EM mechanical testing, interferometry, MEMS), c) phase field modeling; 4) Micro-to-macro scale research methods: a) Experimental characterization (optical microscopy, XRD, DIC), b) Mechanical testing at various rates (quasi-static techniques, DMA, Split-Hopkinson), c) FEM and crystal plasticity.

Resources

Lecture Notes

Notes/slides will be provided after each class.

Literature

No textbooks required. Relevant journal articles/resources will be provided.

General Information

Language
English
Levels
DR
Frequency
Yearly recurring

Examination

Type
ungraded semester performance
Students will be evaluated based on their submitted research proposals (50%), their reviews of other groups' research proposals (20%), and a response to the review of their proposal--in the form of an oral presentation (30%).

Registration & Places

Max Places
20
Priority: Registration for the course unit is only possible for the primary target group

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
lecture with exercise Proposal Writing in Solid Mechanics Research
  • Tue 10:15-12:00 (ML F 40)
  • Fri 10:15-12:00 (HG E 41)
4 h weekly

Offered In