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, cutting-edge fundamental research, and efforts to apply new knowledge and innovations directly in practice. The Laboratory of Energy Science and Engineering (D-MAVT) is actively developing numerical and experimental tools to probe single- and multiphase granular (particulate) systems.

Project Background

Granular systems are ubiquitous in nature (e.g., rock avalanches or dunes) and are fundamentally important to various industries. Despite their widespread use and occurrence, many significant phenomena such as segregation, surface instabilities, and jamming—where systems transition from fluid-like to solid-like states—are poorly understood. This project specifically explores the effects of particle deformability and non-sphericity on the dynamics and rheology of granular systems. Flexible particles deform under stress, and this deformation in turn influences contact forces and stress transmission, resulting in complex rheological phenomena such as transient jamming or stress-induced orientational ordering. Although systems of deformable, aspherical particles are anticipated to be rich in physical phenomena, they have largely been overlooked due to the challenges associated with experimental measurements and their numerical modeling.

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

Job Description

The objective of the PhD student hired by the Laboratory of Energy Science and Engineering is to:

• Advance numerical tools to model non-spherical and deformable granular systems.
• Establish camera-based experimental techniques such as photoelasticimetry to determine contact forces and stress fields in such systems.
• Develop and utilize machine-learning-based models to correlate particle deformation and contact forces in 3D systems.

Profile

• Applicants for this PhD position are expected to hold a strong MSc degree in Mechanical Engineering, Physics, or related disciplines.
• Previous experience in numerical modeling or imaging techniques is highly desirable.
• We are seeking motivated, committed, and creative individuals who can work effectively in a team, possessing excellent communication skills in English, both oral and written.
• Working in a top-level research environment provides a unique opportunity to enhance research abilities.
• The position is available starting in July 2026.

Workplace

The role will be based in Zurich, a city known for its vibrant academic community and culture.

We Offer

• An exciting working environment.
• Opportunities to learn cutting-edge techniques.
• Perspectives for career development.
• A diverse and interdisciplinary team.

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

In line with our values, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity, and nurture a working and learning environment where the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to learn how we ensure a fair and open atmosphere that allows everyone to grow and excel. Sustainability is a core value for us, and we continuously work towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

We look forward to receiving your online application using the form below. Please include the following documents:

• Motivation letter
• CV
• Transcripts
• Names of two potential reference providers

Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

For further information about the Laboratory of Energy Science and Engineering, please visit our website. Questions regarding the position can be directed to Prof. Christoph Müller at muelchri@ethz.ch.

About ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specializing in science and technology. We are recognized for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research, and the direct transfer of new knowledge into society. With over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries, our university fosters independent thinking and inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, yet connected globally, we work collaboratively to develop solutions for today’s and tomorrow’s global challenges.