PhD Candidate in Numerical and Experimental Studies of Non-Spherical and Deformable Granular Systems

PhD Position in Numerical and Experimental Studies of Non-Spherical and Deformable Granular Systems

100%, Zurich, Fixed-Term

ETH Zurich is one of the world's leading universities, renowned for its excellence in education, pioneering research, and commitment to translating new knowledge and innovations into practical applications. The Laboratory of Energy Science and Engineering (D-MAVT) is actively engaged in developing numerical and experimental tools to explore single- and multiphase granular (particulate) systems.

Project Background

Granular systems are prevalent in nature (e.g., rock avalanches, sand dunes) and hold fundamental significance for various industries. However, despite their extensive use, phenomena such as segregation, surface instabilities, and jamming—where a material transitions from a fluid-like to a solid-like state—remain poorly understood. This project specifically investigates how particle deformability and non-sphericity influence the dynamics and rheology of granular systems. Flexible particles deform under stress, which in turn affects contact forces and stress transmission, leading to intricate rheological phenomena such as transient jamming and stress-induced orientational ordering. Although systems composed of deformable, aspherical particles are anticipated to exhibit rich physical phenomena, they have often been overlooked due to the challenges associated with experimental measurements and numerical modeling in such systems.

This PhD position is part of a collaborative project that unites the expertise of two research groups: the Laboratory of Energy Science and Engineering (Prof. Müller) and the Institute for Biomedical Imaging Magnetic Resonance Technology (Prof. Prüssmann). PhD students hired by these groups will be expected to collaborate closely on a daily basis.

Job Description

The aim for the PhD student in the Laboratory of Energy Science and Engineering is to:

• Advance numerical tools for modeling non-spherical and deformable granular systems
• Establish camera-based experimental techniques, such as photo-elasticity, to determine contact forces and stress fields in these systems
• Develop and employ machine-learning models to correlate particle deformation with contact forces in 3D systems

Profile

• Candidates should possess a strong MSc degree in Mechanical Engineering, Physics, or related disciplines
• Previous experience in numerical modeling or imaging techniques is desirable
• We seek highly motivated, committed, and creative individuals who can work collaboratively and possess excellent communication skills in English, both oral and written
• The position offers a unique opportunity to enhance research skills in a top-level research environment
• The position is available from July 2026 onwards

Workplace

This position is based in an exciting, diverse, and interdisciplinary team at ETH Zurich, fostering an innovative atmosphere for research and development.

We Offer

• An inspiring working environment
• Opportunities to learn cutting-edge techniques
• Career development prospects
• A diverse and interdisciplinary team

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

ETH Zurich is committed to fostering an inclusive culture that promotes equality of opportunity and values diversity. We nurture an environment in which the rights and dignity of all staff and students are respected. For more information, please visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website. Sustainability is also a core value for us as we work diligently towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

To apply, please use the online form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

About ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich is widely recognized as one of the leading universities specializing in science and technology. We are esteemed for our educational excellence, groundbreaking research, and effective dissemination of knowledge into society. With over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries, our university fosters independent thinking and cultivates an environment encouraging academic excellence. Situated in the heart of Europe and interconnected globally, we collaborate to address today’s and tomorrow’s challenges.