Postdoc in Direct Ink Writing of Thermo-Electric Materials

Postdoc in Direct Ink Writing of Thermo-Electric Materials

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The Advanced Manufacturing Lab (am|z) at the Department of Mechanical & Process Engineering (D-MAVT) at ETH Zurich is dedicated to pioneering advanced manufacturing methods and systems that transcend the limitations of contemporary material processing technologies. One vital area of our research focuses on the design and fabrication of active structures through innovative hybrid production methods. We are seeking a highly motivated Postdoc to develop techniques for direct ink writing of thermo-electric materials on non-planar metallic substrates.

Project Background

This position is part of the recently awarded Meta.Morphos project, funded by the ESA ESDI Phi-Lab Switzerland. The main aim of the project is to design and create thermally actuated structures and mechanisms using thermo-electric materials. These devices hold significant potential for applications in space while adhering to stringent constraints regarding weight, volume, power, and resources.

The project consortium consists of multiple labs at ETH Zurich and research partnerships with Inspire AG, along with various industrial collaborators. The primary focus of this role will be to create materials and methods for directly depositing and fabricating thermo-electric devices on non-planar metallic substrates. Concurrently, the team will develop techniques to design and manufacture structures with predictable material properties. The integration of both technologies will lead to the production of advanced devices. Our industrial partners will contribute specific use cases, environmental testing expertise, facilities, and validation.

Job Description

• Characterization of powdered materials for ink formulation
• Development of DIW processes for ceramic and TE materials, including parameter optimization and resolution evaluation
• Setup, programming, and operation of DIW equipment
• Determination of the optimal debinding and sintering steps
• Characterization of sintered materials in terms of density, microstructure, defects, shrinkage, potential distortions, and preliminary thermoelectrical properties
• Conducting validation studies under simulated environmental conditions
• Supporting the industrial transfer of developed technologies
• Publishing research findings in leading international journals and presenting at conferences
• Participating actively in teaching and lab duties outside of the project (~15-20% of working time)

Profile

• PhD in Material Science and Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, or Chemistry
• Experience and knowledge in direct ink writing technology, thermoelectric and ceramic materials, powder technology, and material characterization, with a robust scientific publication record
• Strong communication, organizational, and analytical skills
• Proficiency in written and spoken English; knowledge of German is a plus

Workplace

Founded in 2020 and led by Prof. Bambach, the Advanced Manufacturing Lab (am|z) employs approximately 50 individuals engaged in research activities related to additive and hybrid manufacturing processes as well as advanced process control. We offer a dynamic, interdisciplinary, and international working environment, striving to foster a collaborative atmosphere. ETH Zurich is also committed to supporting postdocs in developing their career perspectives, whether in research or industry.

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

ETH Zurich promotes an inclusive culture, encouraging equality of opportunity, valuing diversity, and nurturing a work and learning environment where the rights and dignity of all staff and students are honored. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to learn how we ensure a fair and open environment that enables everyone to thrive. Sustainability is central to our mission, and we are consistently working towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

We invite you to apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

• Curriculum Vitae
• Publications list, highlighting the three most relevant publications for this position
• Reference letters and/or contact details for three academic and/or professional references (you will be notified before they are contacted)

For more information about the Advanced Manufacturing Lab, please visit our website. Questions regarding the position can be directed to Dr. Léa Deillon at ldeillon@ethz.ch (no applications).

About ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich is one of the world's leading universities specializing in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, innovative fundamental research, and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. With over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries, our university champions independent thinking and fosters an environment that inspires excellence. Positioned in the heart of Europe while establishing global connections, we collaborate to tackle the pressing challenges of today and tomorrow.