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 aim to understand how materials deform, degrade, break, and ultimately fail. Our research is driven by an intrinsic curiosity regarding the physical mechanisms behind these failures and is complemented by our ambition to translate our findings into the development of more reliable and resilient materials and structures. By integrating numerical modeling, laboratory experiments, and theoretical analyses, we strive to connect microscopic processes with the macroscopic behavior of engineering and natural systems to develop predictive tools for mechanical failure.
Our team is highly interdisciplinary and international, uniting researchers with diverse backgrounds in materials science, mechanics, and applied physics. We investigate a wide range of topics, including:
- Mechanics of particle systems (colloidal and granular)
- Architected and topologically interlocked materials
- Mechanics of fragility in collagen
- Mechanics of earthquakes
- Fracture of soft materials
- Modeling failure in multiphysical processes, such as corrosion-driven degradation of concrete
What unites our research endeavors is a shared curiosity about the reasons behind material failures 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.
- The position offers the opportunity to design and conduct advanced experiments and collaborate with researchers developing analytical and numerical models to reveal the fundamental mechanisms of material failure.
- Depending on your background and interests, the research may focus on one or more areas, such as fracture of soft and architected materials, failure in particle systems, material cutting, or frictional failure of interfaces.
- Alongside conducting independent research, you will contribute to enhancing the group’s experimental infrastructure, supervise student projects, and collaborate with fellow researchers within SMEC and across ETH Zurich.
- This position provides a stimulating environment for scientific growth and collaboration.
Profile
- You possess a doctoral degree in mechanics (civil, mechanical, aerospace, or bio-engineering), materials science, physics, or a related field, with a robust background in experimental research.
- You are experienced in designing and conducting laboratory experiments, developing measurement techniques, and analyzing complex mechanical behaviors of materials.
- Experience in fracture mechanics or related areas, such as solid mechanics, tribology, or soft matter, is particularly valued.
- You are curious, creative, and self-motivated, with a strong interest in understanding the physical mechanisms governing material failure.
- You thrive in an interdisciplinary environment and are enthusiastic about collaborating with colleagues through experiments, modeling, and theory. Strong communication skills and the ability to mentor students are essential.
We Offer
- Your job with impact: Join ETH Zurich, which not only supports 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.
- You can expect numerous benefits, including public transport season tickets, car sharing, a wide range of sports offered by ASVZ, childcare, and attractive pension benefits.
We Value Diversity and Sustainability
Aligned with our values, ETH Zurich promotes an inclusive culture. We advocate for 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 learn how we cultivate an environment that allows everyone to thrive. Sustainability is a core tenet for us; we continuously strive towards a climate-neutral future.
Curious? So Are We.
The position is available with a flexible start date, ideally as soon as possible.
Apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.
About ETH Zürich
ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specializing in science and technology. Renowned for its outstanding education and cutting-edge research, we excel in transferring new knowledge to society. With over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries, our university fosters independent thinking and an inspiring environment dedicated to excellence. Positioned in the heart of Europe yet connected globally, we collaborate to develop solutions for the pressing challenges of today and tomorrow.