Postdoctoral Researcher: Experimental Fracture Mechanics
100%, Zurich, fixed-term
At the Professorship of Solid Mechanics (SMEC) within the Institute for Building Materials at ETH Zurich, we strive to understand how materials deform, degrade, break, and ultimately fail. Our research is fueled by a deep curiosity about the physical mechanisms behind failure and a commitment to translating 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 engineering and natural systems, developing predictive tools for mechanical failure.
Our team is highly interdisciplinary and international, uniting researchers from diverse backgrounds in materials science, mechanics, and applied physics. We explore various 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
What brings us together is a shared curiosity about the failure of complex materials and a commitment to developing innovative concepts, experiments, and models that advance our understanding of failure mechanics.
Job Description
- You will contribute to the experimental and theoretical investigation of fracture processes in complex materials.
- This position provides the opportunity to design and conduct advanced experiments and collaborate with researchers developing analytical and numerical models, integrating these perspectives to reveal fundamental mechanisms of material failure.
- Depending on your background and interests, research may focus on one or more areas such as the fracture of soft and architected materials, failure in particle systems, material cutting, or the frictional failure of interfaces.
- In addition to conducting independent research, the Postdoctoral Researcher will actively support the enhancement of the group's experimental infrastructure, supervise student projects, and collaborate with researchers within SMEC and across ETH Zurich.
- This position offers a stimulating environment for scientific growth and collaboration.
Profile
- You hold a doctoral degree in mechanics (civil, mechanical, aerospace, or bio-engineering), materials science, physics, or a related field, with a strong emphasis on experimental research.
- You have experience designing and conducting laboratory experiments, developing measurement techniques, and analyzing the complex mechanical behavior of materials.
- Familiarity with fracture mechanics or related areas such as solid mechanics, tribology, or soft matter is particularly welcome.
- You are curious, creative, and self-motivated, with a keen interest in understanding the physical mechanisms that govern material failure.
- You enjoy working in an interdisciplinary setting and are excited about collaborating with colleagues who merge experiments, modeling, and theory.
- Strong communication skills, the ability to mentor students, and the capacity to contribute to a collaborative research atmosphere are essential.
Workplace
The position is based at ETH Zurich, known for being one of the world's leading universities specializing in science and technology. You will join a vibrant international research community that encourages curiosity and fosters collaboration.
We Offer
- Your role makes an impact: Join ETH Zurich, which not only fosters your professional development but also actively contributes to positive societal change.
- Become part of a dynamic, international, and supportive research group that values curiosity, creativity, and collaboration.
- ETH Zurich provides an outstanding scientific environment and state-of-the-art research facilities.
- Expect numerous benefits, such as public transport season tickets and car-sharing options, a wide array of sports activities offered by ASVZ, childcare facilities, and attractive pension benefits.
We Value Diversity and Sustainability
Aligned with our values, ETH Zurich promotes an inclusive culture that values diversity and fosters an environment where the rights and dignity of all staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to learn more about how we cultivate a fair and open environment that allows everyone to thrive. Sustainability is a core value for us; we are consistently working towards a climate-neutral future.
Curious? So Are We.
The position is available with a flexible start date, ideally as soon as possible. To explore this opportunity, apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.
For further information about the professorship, please visit our website. For inquiries regarding the position, contact Prof. David Kammer at dkammer@ethz.ch.
About ETH Zurich
ETH Zurich is ranked among the world's leading universities for science and technology. We are renowned for excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research, and the direct transfer of knowledge into society. With over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries, our university promotes independent thinking and inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, we are forging connections globally, working collaboratively to develop solutions for the challenges of today and tomorrow.