Postdoctoral Researcher / Postdoctoral Researcheress

Postdoctoral Researcher in Modeling Damage Mechanics in Cavitation of Soft Materials

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 complexities of material deformation, degradation, and failure. Our research is motivated by a deep curiosity about the physical mechanisms behind these processes, as well as a commitment to translating this knowledge into more reliable and resilient materials and structures. By blending numerical modeling, laboratory experiments, and theoretical analyses, we link microscopic processes to the macroscopic behavior of engineering and natural systems, ultimately developing predictive tools for mechanical failure.

Our team is diverse and international, comprised of researchers with expertise in materials science, mechanics, and applied physics. We explore a variety 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

Unified by a shared curiosity to unravel the intricacies of material failure, we are dedicated to developing innovative concepts, experiments, and models that advance our understanding of failure mechanics.

Project Background

To further our investigations into the failure of soft materials, we seek a motivated and innovative Postdoctoral Researcher with a solid background in computational solid mechanics and fracture/damage modeling. The successful candidate will enhance our modeling capabilities and drive independent research that aligns with our ongoing studies into the mechanisms governing material failure.

Job Description

• Lead the computational and theoretical investigation of damage evolution associated with cavitation in soft materials subjected to high-rate loading.
• Develop physics-based models that connect behavior across scales, from the polymeric network and mesoscale structure to the macroscopic continuum, utilizing consistent coarse-graining and homogenization strategies.
• Formulate constitutive and damage laws reflecting cavitation-driven processes, implement robust large deformation solvers, and conduct thorough verification and validation using datasets from collaborators in Prof. Christian Franck's group at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
• Engage in a stimulating environment that fosters scientific growth and collaboration.

Profile

• Doctoral degree in mechanical, civil, aerospace, biomedical engineering, materials science, physics, or a related field.
• Strong foundation in computational solid mechanics and nonlinear continuum mechanics, particularly in fracture and damage modeling under large deformations.
• Experience in implementing and verifying numerical solvers, analyzing stability and convergence, and validating models against experimental data.
• Proficient in Python and possess good software engineering practices, including version control and testing.
• Experience with high-rate dynamics, cavitation, viscoelastic or poroelastic behavior, or uncertainty quantification is advantageous.
• Curiosity and motivation to collaborate closely with experimentalists, including partners at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
• Strong communication skills in English, ability to mentor students, and commitment to open and reproducible research.

Workplace

Joining our dynamic, international, and supportive research group means entering an environment that values curiosity, rigor, and collaboration. ETH Zurich offers an outstanding scientific ecosystem with access to high-performance computing and close collaboration with Prof. Christian Franck’s group at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, which includes regular joint meetings and the opportunity for short research visits. As a family-friendly employer, ETH Zurich provides excellent working conditions, cultural diversity, and attractive offers and benefits.

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

At ETH Zurich, we are committed to fostering an inclusive culture that promotes equality of opportunity, values diversity, and nurtures a collaborative working and learning environment. We respect the rights and dignity of all staff and students. Sustainability is a core principle for us, as we consistently work towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

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

The position is available with a flexible start date, ideally as soon as possible, and can be offered with a workload of 80-100%.

For more information about the professorship, please visit our website. Questions regarding the position can 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. Known for our exceptional education, pioneering research, and direct knowledge transfer into society, we welcome over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries. Our university fosters independent thinking and inspires excellence while addressing the global challenges of today and tomorrow from the heart of Europe.