Exciting PhD Opportunity: Friction in Architected Materials at ETH Zurich

Are you ready to dive into groundbreaking research at one of the world’s leading universities? The Institute for Building Materials at ETH Zurich is seeking a PhD student to join their team, focusing on the study of friction in architected materials. This position offers a unique chance to work on innovative projects that bridge the gap between theoretical models and practical applications in material science.

About the Project

The Computational Mechanics of Building Materials (CMBM) group aims to understand and predict mechanical failure in materials and structures. This project, funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation, emphasizes the development of interfaces with unconventional mechanical properties. As part of a highly interdisciplinary team, you will explore the frictional properties of meta-materials—materials engineered to have unique structural properties.

Key Responsibilities

As a PhD candidate, you will:

• Develop numerical and theoretical models to analyze the friction properties of meta-interfaces.
• Evaluate mechanical properties resulting from various architected meso-structural approaches using high-performance computing systems.
• Collaborate with external partners to conduct experimental tests on design concepts.
• Analyze data to understand factors that contribute to desired friction properties.

Candidate Profile

To be eligible for this position, candidates should possess:

• An MSc degree in mechanics, physics, engineering (civil, mechanical, aerospace, or bio), material science, or a related field.
• A solid background in solid mechanics, applied physics, mathematics, and computational sciences.
• Programming experience and fluency in English (oral and written).
• A passion for interdisciplinary research and a collaborative spirit.

What ETH Zurich Offers

ETH Zurich is renowned for its commitment to excellence in education and research. The university promotes a culture of diversity and inclusion, ensuring a supportive environment for all employees. As a family-friendly employer, ETH provides excellent working conditions and numerous benefits, making it a great place to develop your academic career.

Application Process

The position is available with a flexible start date, and candidates are encouraged to apply online. Required application materials include:

• A CV
• An academic transcript or list of completed courses
• A brief project proposal relevant to the job description
• Names and contact details of two references

Applications should be submitted exclusively through the ETH Zurich online portal, as other forms of submission will not be considered.

Why Choose ETH Zurich?

ETH Zurich is not just a prestigious institution; it’s a vibrant community of scholars from over 120 countries. The university is located in the heart of Europe and is dedicated to addressing global challenges through innovative research and education. By joining ETH Zurich, you will be part of an environment that fosters independent thinking and inspires excellence.