Exciting PhD Opportunity: Friction in Architected Materials at ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich, one of the world’s leading universities specializing in science and technology, is pleased to announce a PhD position focused on friction in architected materials within the Institute for Building Materials. This position offers a unique chance for ambitious researchers to contribute to the evolving field of computational mechanics and material science.

Position Overview

• Title: PhD Student in Friction in Architected Materials
• Location: Zurich, Switzerland
• Employment Type: 100% (full-time)
• Project Duration: Fixed-term

About the Project

The Computational Mechanics of Building Materials (CMBM) group at ETH Zurich aims to understand and predict mechanical failure in materials and structures. By integrating numerical modeling, laboratory experiments, and theoretical models, the team creates a comprehensive perspective on mechanical behavior, particularly in architected materials known as meta-materials.

These materials possess unique properties derived from their meso-structure, making them a focus of recent research due to their superior mechanical characteristics. However, frictional properties of these meta-materials remain underexplored. This project, funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation, seeks to establish a deeper understanding of friction at meta-interfaces, paving the way for the design of materials with unconventional friction properties.

Key Responsibilities

The successful candidate will:

• Develop numerical and theoretical models to analyze friction properties of meta-interfaces.
• Evaluate mechanical properties arising from various architected meso-structural designs using advanced computational tools.
• Collaborate with external researchers to experimentally validate design concepts and demonstrate their potential applications.

Candidate Profile

Ideal candidates should possess:

• An MSc degree in mechanics, physics, (civil, mechanical, aerospace, or bio-) engineering, material science, or a related discipline.
• A solid background in solid mechanics, applied physics and mathematics, and computational sciences.
• Proficiency in programming and fluency in English (both oral and written).
• A strong enthusiasm for conducting original research in an interdisciplinary and international environment.

What ETH Zurich Offers

ETH Zurich is renowned for its excellent working conditions and commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive culture. The university promotes equality of opportunity and respects the rights and dignity of all staff and students.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit their applications online, including:

1. A CV.
2. An academic transcript or list of completed courses.
3. A brief statement of project ideas relevant to the position, connecting personal experience to existing literature.
4. The names and contact details of two references.

Note: Applications submitted via email or postal services will not be considered. The position is available with a flexible start date, potentially as soon as possible.

Contact Information

For questions regarding the position, please reach out to:

Prof. David Kammer
Email: dkammer@ethz.ch (no applications via email)