Investigation of Railway Studs and Squats

The research seeks to develop a generalised validated mathematical model for rail studs, and in particular to examine how this mechanism differs from that for rail squats.  Railway studs and squats are track defects that grow via dynamic loading over successive train wheel passages. The model would be used to predict growth of studs and to evaluate and determine optimum railway vehicle and track conditions to mitigate this rail defect. An extensive experimental and field study would be used to validate the results. 

The nonlinear and railway mechanics groups at the University of Queensland are highly vibrant research clusters that typically work on both theoretical and practical aspects of mechanics phenomena with close industry interaction if needed. The group boasts both high impact in very high quality journals as well as industry impact in solving real problems.

This project is supported by the Research project scholarship.

Learn more about the Research project scholarship.

You must contact the principal supervisor for this project to discuss your interest. You should only complete the online application after you have reached agreement on supervision.

Always make sure you are approaching your potential supervisor in a professional way. We have provided some guidelines for you on how to contact a supervisor.

Your application will be assessed on a competitive basis.

We take into account your:

• previous academic record
• publication record
• honours and awards
• employment history.

A working knowledge of applied mechanics, fatigue analysis, finite element modelling, metallurgical analysis and/or control systems would be of benefit to someone working on this project.

You will demonstrate academic achievement in the field(s) of applied mechanics including statics and dynamics and the potential for scholastic success.

A background or knowledge of railway mechanics, contact mechanics, mathematical modelling, finite element modelling, metallurgical analysis and/or control theory is highly desirable.

Before you apply

Before submitting an application you should:

1. check your eligibility for a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
2. prepare your documentation
3. contact Professor Paul Meehan (meehan@uq.edu.au) to discuss your interest and suitability
4. submit your application by 23 May, 2024 25 December, 2030.

When you apply

You apply for this scholarship when you submit an application for your program. You don’t need to submit a separate scholarship application.

In your application ensure that under the ‘Scholarships and collaborative study’ section you select:

• ‘My higher degree is not collaborative’
• ‘I am applying for, or have been awarded a scholarship or sponsorship'
• ‘Other’, then ‘Research Project Scholarship’ and in the ‘Name of scholarship’ field enter RAILWAY-MEEHAN.

Apply now