PhD Position on Biological Products: Empa is offering a PhD scholarship focusing on the development of digital twins for optimizing the cooling processes and supply chains of heat-sensitive biological products. The research aims to enhance the understanding of how these products behave in cold chain logistics and to develop innovative cooling solutions that improve environmental and economic impacts.
PhD Position on Optimizing Cooling Processes and Supply Chains of Heat-Sensitive Biological Products by Digital Twins
Designation
PhD Researcher in Biomimetic Membranes and Textiles
Research Area
Optimization of Cooling Processes and Supply Chains of Heat-Sensitive Biological Products
Location
Empa, Lerchenfeldstrasse 5, 9014 St. Gallen, Switzerland
Eligibility/Qualification
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Educational Background | Completed Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering |
| Experience | Proven experience in continuum modeling (finite element modeling, computational fluid dynamics) |
| Knowledge | Heat and mass transport processes in heat-sensitive materials and process optimization |
| Advantageous Skills | Experience in supply chains and hygrothermal measurements (temperature, infrared, anemometry) |
| Language Proficiency | Excellent communication skills in English; knowledge of German is advantageous |
Description
The PhD project involves the development of multiphysics models for the complete supply chain of selected heat-sensitive biological products. Key responsibilities include:
- Creating digital twins that represent the aging of products during shipment.
- Analyzing sensor data to optimize refrigeration processes and packaging design to reduce product quality loss and waste.
- Performing comprehensive supply chain assessments to identify optimal cooling technologies, benefiting various stakeholders.
- Extending digital twin applications to human heat stress predictions for assessing health impacts in extreme conditions.
This project is conducted in collaboration with ETH Zürich and involves close partnership with industrial stakeholders.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit a complete online application that includes:
- A letter of motivation
- CV
- Certificates and diplomas
- Contact details of two reference persons
Submissions must be made via the Empa job portal. Applications sent by email or post will not be considered.
Last Date for Apply
The desired starting date is October 1, 2025, or upon mutual agreement. Please consult the Empa job portal for specific application deadlines.
For more information or inquiries, please contact:
Prof. Dr. Thijs Defraeye, Group Leader, Biomimetic Membranes and Textiles.
