Postdoctoral Researcher / Postdoctoral Researcheress

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 aim to understand how materials deform, degrade, break, and ultimately fail. Our research is driven by curiosity about the physical mechanisms underlying failure and by the ambition to translate this understanding into more reliable and resilient materials and structures. By combining numerical modeling, laboratory experiments, and theoretical analyses, we seek to link microscopic processes with the macroscopic behavior of both engineering and natural systems, developing predictive tools for mechanical failure.

Our team is highly interdisciplinary and international, bringing together researchers with backgrounds in materials science, mechanics, and applied physics. We explore a broad range of topics, including the mechanics of particle systems (colloidal and granular), architected and topologically interlocked materials, fragility mechanics in collagen, earthquake mechanics, fracture of soft materials, and modeling failure in multiphysical processes such as corrosion-driven degradation of concrete. What unites these efforts is a shared curiosity about why complex materials fail and a commitment to advancing our understanding of failure mechanics.

To strengthen and expand our experimental research capabilities, we are searching for a motivated and creative Postdoctoral Researcher with a strong background in fracture mechanics. The successful candidate will lead independent research that complements our ongoing efforts to understand the mechanisms and laws governing material failure.

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 while collaborating closely with researchers who develop analytical and numerical models, integrating these perspectives to reveal the fundamental mechanisms of material failure.
• Research may focus on one or more areas such as fracture of soft and architected materials, failure in particle systems, material cutting, or the frictional failure of interfaces, depending on your background and interests.
• In addition to conducting independent research, the Postdoctoral Researcher will actively contribute to developing 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 hold a doctoral degree in mechanics, (civil, mechanical, aerospace, or bio-) engineering, materials science, physics, or a related field, with a strong background in experimental research.
• You have experience in designing and conducting laboratory experiments, developing and using measurement techniques, and analyzing the complex mechanical behavior of materials.
• Experience in fracture mechanics or related fields such as solid mechanics, tribology, or soft matter is particularly welcome.
• You are curious, creative, and self-motivated, with a strong interest in understanding the physical mechanisms that govern material failure.
• You thrive in an interdisciplinary environment and enjoy collaborating with colleagues who integrate 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

We Offer

• Your job with impact: Become part of ETH Zurich, which supports your professional development and contributes to positive societal change.
• Join a dynamic, international, and supportive research group that values curiosity, creativity, and collaboration.
• Experience an outstanding scientific environment and state-of-the-art research facilities at ETH Zurich.
• Enjoy numerous benefits, including public transport season tickets, car sharing, a wide range of sports offered by the ASVZ, childcare, and attractive pension plans.

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

In line with our values, ETH Zurich fosters an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity, and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to learn how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish. Sustainability is central to our values, as we continuously work 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. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research, and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, we forge connections worldwide, collaborating to develop solutions for today’s and tomorrow’s global challenges.