The  Computational Mechanics of Building Materials in the Institute for Building Materials at ETH Zurich has an opening for a PhD student infriction in architected materials.

The  Computational Mechanics of Building Materials (CMBM) aims to understand and predict mechanical failure in materials and structures. By combining numerical modeling tools with tailored laboratory experiments and theoretical models, we create a holistic perspective on mechanical failure, bridging the gap between material behavior at the small scale and principles governing catastrophic failure at the system level. CMBM is a highly interdisciplinary and international research team. The topics of current research projects at CMBM include uncovering the mechanisms of earthquake nucleation and arrest, building structures with topologically interlocked materials, revealing the processes governing the structural build-up of cement in additive manufacturing, determining the nano- and micro-scale processes that control cracking of concrete due to corrosion, uncovering the fundamental laws governing granular materials, and revealing the damage and fracture mechanisms in soft materials.

This position is part of a project funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation, which supports multiple researchers and focuses on the development of interfaces with unconventional mechanical properties.

Meta-materials, which are architected materials with properties resulting from their meso-structure, have gained increasing attention in recent years because of their unconventional and superior mechanical properties. While many meta-materials are designed to have unique dynamic properties, great resistance to damage, or outstanding toughness-density ratios, research on their frictional properties has been limited. In this project, our aim is to explore the mechanical properties of interfaces in architected materials with a particular focus on friction. We aim to establish the necessary understanding of friction at meta-interfaces that will enable the design of unconventional friction properties.

The successful candidate will develop numerical and theoretical models to determine the friction properties of meta-interfaces. She/he will evaluate the mechanical properties resulting from various architected meso-structural approaches using in-house codes and high-performance computing systems. He/she will analyze the produced data to determine the factors leading to desired friction properties and establish knowledge that provides the scientific basis for the development of architected material concepts for unconventional friction behavior. The candidate will actively collaborate with (external) collaborators in experimentally testing the design concepts and demonstrate their potential.

You hold an MSc degree in mechanics, physics, (civil, mechanical, aerospace, or bio-) engineering, material science, or a related discipline and have a background in solid mechanics, applied physics and mathematics, computational sciences, or a related field. Additionally, you have prior programming experience and are fluent in English (oral and written). You show enthusiasm for conducting original research in an interdisciplinary and international team, and you strive for scientific excellence. You enjoy working in a team, possess the necessary social skills and communication abilities, and contribute proactively to a positive group atmosphere.

ETH Zurich is a family-friendly employer with excellent working conditions. You can look forward to an exciting working environment, cultural diversity and attractive offers and benefits.

In line with our values, ETH Zurich encourages 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 our staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to find out how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish.

The position is available with a flexible start date possibly as soon as possible.

We look forward to receiving your online application with the following documents:

• CV
• an academic transcript/list of courses completed
• a brief statement describing your project idea relevant to the job description, making a connection to your experience and the related work from the literature
• the names and contact details of two references

Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered.

Further information about the department can be found on our website. Questions regarding the position should be directed to Prof. David Kammer by email dkammer@ethz.ch (no applications).

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specialising 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 people 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, yet forging connections all over the world, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.