Prof. Dr. Kent Warren, head of the Solar Energy Engineering Laboratory in the Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering at ETH Zürich, invites applications for a fully funded, full-time PhD position focused on the development of novel, energy-dense materials for asynchronous storage and dispatch of high-quality heat. The position is expected to start on 1 August 2025, or at the earliest convenience of the successful candidate.

At the Solar Energy Engineering Laboratory, our mission is to accelerate the deployment of renewable energy by developing cost-effective technologies that convert sunlight into a storable and more usable form.

The successful candidate will contribute to this mission by applying fundamentals of thermodynamics, heat and mass transfer, and experimental design to develop materials – and scalable methods for their fabrication – that not only substantially outperform conventional sensible heat-based thermal energy storage media but also exhibit robust thermal and mechanical stability at temperatures above 1000°C. Different aspects of the fabricated materials, as well as their overall performance, will be experimentally evaluated using both custom-built equipment and advanced thermophysical characterization techniques, including thermogravimetry, differential scanning calorimetry, and laser flash analysis. In addition to conducting original research, the successful candidate will be responsible for writing and publishing research findings in leading scientific journals, presenting at international conferences, supporting team members in various scholarly activities, and mentoring Master's and Bachelor's students.

We are seeking a highly motivated, well-rounded, and intellectually curious early-career researcher who meets the following criteria:

• A Master’s degree in mechanical engineering, process engineering, chemical engineering, chemistry, materials science, or a closely related discipline.
• Proven ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a research environment.
• A supportive mindset with the capacity to thrive in diverse, inclusive, and multidisciplinary settings.
• Excellent communication skills in English, both written and oral.
• Experience with computational tools commonly used in scientific research (e.g., MATLAB, Python, or similar).
• Above all, a genuine enthusiasm for science and discovery, particularly in the field of sustainable energy conversion and storage.

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.

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

• A cover letter describing your scientific interests and how your background aligns with the profile (max. 1 page).
• A detailed curriculum vitae.
• A digital copy of your Master’s thesis.
• A digital copy of all official academic transcripts.
• The names and contact details of three academic references.

Application deadline: 2 June 2025

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

Questions regarding the position should be directed to Mrs. Annica Mandola at [email protected].

We would like to point out that the pre-selection is carried out by the responsible recruiters and not by artificial intelligence.

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.