PhD Candidate / PhD Candidate

PhD Position: Modeling Friction in Colloidal Suspensions

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

At the Professorship of Solid Mechanics (SMEC) in the Institute for Building Materials at ETH Zurich, our primary goal is to understand how materials deform, degrade, break, and ultimately fail. Our research is propelled by a deep curiosity about the physical mechanisms underlying failure and by the ambition to translate this understanding into more reliable and resilient materials and structures. By integrating numerical modeling, laboratory experiments, and theoretical analyses, we aim to connect microscopic processes with the macroscopic behavior of both engineering and natural systems, fostering the development of predictive tools for mechanical failure.

Our team is composed of a diverse and international group of researchers, bringing together expertise from materials science, mechanics, and applied physics. We engage in a wide array of topics, including:

• The mechanics of particle systems (colloidal and granular)
• Architected and topologically interlocked materials
• The mechanics of fragility in collagen
• The mechanics of earthquakes
• Fracture of soft materials
• Modeling failure in multiphysical processes such as corrosion-driven degradation of concrete

Our shared curiosity about the causes of complex material failure drives us to develop innovative concepts, experiments, and models that enhance our understanding of failure mechanics.

Job Description

• You will conduct a computational and theoretical investigation of the influence of inter-particle friction on the rheology of concentrated suspensions.
• Your focus will be on applying physics-based models that bridge the behavior across scales, from the geometry of individual colloidal particles to the macroscopic response of the suspension.
• Your responsibilities will include implementing coarse-grained molecular dynamics simulations, and performing rigorous verification and validation using datasets provided by our collaborators.
• You will collaborate closely with experimental researchers within the project, offering modeling insights to help interpret experimental observations.
• The position provides a stimulating environment for scientific growth and collaboration.

Profile

• You hold an MSc degree in mechanics, physics, (civil, mechanical, aerospace, or bio-) engineering, materials science, or a related discipline.
• You have a background in computational sciences, particularly in solid mechanics, applied physics, or a relevant field.
• You bring experience in implementing scientific code, validating it, and verifying it against experimental data.
• You possess prior programming experience in Python and familiarity with version control.
• You are curious, self-motivated, and enjoy close collaboration with experimentalists.
• You are fluent in English, both oral and written.
• You thrive in a team environment, possessing strong social skills and communication abilities, and contribute proactively to a positive group atmosphere.

Workplace

Your workplace will be located in a dynamic research environment that fosters collaboration and innovation.

We Offer

• You will join an international and supportive research group that values curiosity, rigor, and collaboration.
• Your work will have a significant impact: become part of ETH Zurich, which not only supports your professional development but also actively contributes to positive societal change.
• We are committed to a sustainable and climate-neutral university.
• Expect numerous benefits, including public transport season tickets, car sharing options, access to a diverse range of sports through ASVZ, childcare provisions, and attractive pension benefits.

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

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 staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to see how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish. Sustainability is a core value for us, and we are consistently striving for a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We!

The position is available with a flexible start date, potentially as soon as possible. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

Apply online using the form below.

Further information about the professorship can be found on our website. Questions regarding the position should be directed to Prof. David Kammer at dkammer@ethz.ch (no applications).

About ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich is recognized as one of the world's leading universities specializing in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellence in education, groundbreaking research, and our commitment to transferring new knowledge to society. With over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries, our university fosters independent thinking and inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe while connecting globally, we collaborate to develop solutions for the pressing challenges of today and tomorrow.