Postdoctoral Researcher in Experimental Fracture Mechanics / Postdoctoral Researcheress in Experimental Fracture Mechanics

Postdoctoral Researcher: Experimental Fracture Mechanics

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

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

What binds these efforts is a shared curiosity to understand why complex materials fail and a commitment to advancing our understanding of failure mechanics through novel concepts, experiments, and models.

Job Description

• You will contribute to the experimental and theoretical investigation of fracture processes in complex materials.
• This position offers the opportunity to design and conduct advanced experiments while collaborating closely with researchers who develop analytical and numerical models to uncover the fundamental mechanisms of material failure.
• Depending on your background and interests, your research may focus on areas such as fracture of soft and architected materials, failure in particle systems, material cutting, or frictional failure of interfaces.
• In addition to conducting independent research, you will actively contribute to the development of the group's experimental infrastructure, supervise student projects, and collaborate with other researchers within SMEC and across ETH Zurich.
• The position provides a stimulating environment for scientific growth and collaboration.

Profile

• You possess a doctoral degree in mechanics (civil, mechanical, aerospace, or bioengineering), materials science, physics, or a related field, with a strong background in experimental research.
• You have experience in designing and executing laboratory experiments, utilizing 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 valuable.
• You are curious, creative, and self-motivated, with a deep interest in the physical mechanisms governing material failure.
• You enjoy an interdisciplinary environment and are enthusiastic about collaboration with colleagues focused on experiments, modeling, and theory.
• Strong communication skills, the ability to mentor students, and a commitment to contributing to a collaborative research atmosphere are essential.

Workplace

Your job will significantly impact not just your professional development but will also contribute to positive societal change as part of ETH Zurich. You will be part of a dynamic, international, and supportive research group that values curiosity, creativity, and collaboration.

ETH Zurich offers an outstanding scientific environment with state-of-the-art research facilities. Expect numerous benefits, including public transport season tickets, car sharing, a diverse range of sports offered by the ASVZ, childcare services, and attractive pension benefits.

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

ETH Zurich is committed to fostering an inclusive culture that promotes equality of opportunity and values diversity. We nurture a working and learning environment where the rights and dignity of all staff and students are respected. Our commitment to sustainability is reflected in our ongoing efforts towards achieving 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.

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 one of the world’s leading universities specializing in science and technology, renowned for its excellent education, groundbreaking research, and the direct transfer of new knowledge into society. With over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries, ETH Zurich is a place that promotes independent thinking and fosters an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe while establishing connections across the globe, we work together to tackle the pressing global challenges of today and tomorrow.