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

Our highly interdisciplinary and international team brings together researchers from 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 mechanisms of earthquakes
• Fracture of soft materials
• Modeling failure in multiphysical processes such as corrosion-driven degradation of concrete

What unites these efforts is our shared curiosity about why complex materials fail and a commitment to developing new concepts, experiments, and models that enhance 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 while collaborating closely with researchers who develop analytical and numerical models, integrating these perspectives to reveal the fundamental mechanisms of material failure.
• Depending on your background and interests, your research may focus on one or more areas, including fracture of soft and architected materials, failure in particle systems, material cutting, or the frictional failure of interfaces.
• Alongside 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 promises 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 robust background in experimental research.
• You are experienced in designing and conducting laboratory experiments, developing and using measurement techniques, and analyzing complex mechanical behavior of materials.
• Experience in fracture mechanics or related areas such as solid mechanics, tribology, or soft matter is particularly advantageous.
• 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 who combine experiments, modeling, and theory. Strong communication skills, the ability to mentor students, and contributions to a collaborative research atmosphere are essential.

Workplace

ETH Zurich provides an outstanding scientific environment with state-of-the-art research facilities. You will join a dynamic, international, and supportive research group that values curiosity, creativity, and collaboration. Numerous benefits include public transport season tickets, car sharing, a wide range of sports offered by the ASVZ, childcare, and attractive pension benefits.

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

In line with our values, ETH Zurich encourages 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. 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.

Apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

Further Information

For additional information about the professorship, please visit our website. Questions regarding the position should be directed to Prof. David Kammer via email at dkammer@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, cutting-edge fundamental research, and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. With over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries, our university encourages independent thinking and fosters an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe and forging connections all over the world, we collaborate to address the global challenges of today and tomorrow.