The Professorship of Solid Mechanics (SMEC) within the Institute for Building Materials at ETH Zurich is seeking a highly motivated and innovative Postdoctoral Researcher. This position offers a unique opportunity to lead experimental research in fracture mechanics, utilizing state-of-the-art imaging and characterization equipment to explore the deformation, degradation, and failure of advanced soft and architected materials.
ETH Zurich is consistently ranked among the world’s top universities for science and technology. As a member of the SMEC team, you will collaborate with an international, multidisciplinary group of researchers spanning materials science, mechanics, and applied physics, contributing to predictive tools for mechanical failure.
Vacancy Overview
Below is a summary of the key details regarding this postdoctoral vacancy at ETH Zurich:
| Designation | Postdoctoral Researcher |
| Research Area | Experimental Fracture Mechanics, Soft Materials, Architected Materials, Solid Mechanics |
| Location | Zurich, Switzerland (ETH Zurich, Hönggerberg Campus) |
| Employment Type | Full-time (100%), Fixed-term |
| Start Date | As soon as possible (Flexible) |
| Application Deadline | Open until filled (Applications reviewed on a rolling basis) |
Research Area & Project Context
The research at the Professorship of Solid Mechanics (SMEC) aims to decode how complex materials deform, crack, and ultimately fail. The successful candidate will expand the department’s experimental capabilities in fracture mechanics. Potential research paths include investigating the fracture dynamics of soft polymers, hydrogels, bio-inspired materials, and architected materials, as well as studying fast dynamic crack propagation.
You will work in a newly established fracture mechanics imaging and characterization laboratory equipped with modern mechanical testing systems, high-speed cameras, 3D printers, and optical microscopy tools.
Job Description
As a Postdoctoral Researcher in Experimental Fracture Mechanics, your primary responsibilities will include:
- Leading high-impact experimental campaigns focusing on the fracture properties of advanced and soft materials.
- Developing and utilizing advanced optical measurement methods (e.g., Digital Image Correlation [DIC], particle tracking, and confocal imaging) to quantify strain fields, crack-tip deformation, and interfacial friction.
- Collaborating closely with theorists and computational modeling experts within the SMEC group to connect laboratory findings with numerical simulations.
- Co-supervising and mentoring junior researchers, including PhD candidates, Master’s, and Bachelor’s students.
- Writing high-quality scientific papers for publication in leading international journals and presenting research at global conferences.
Eligibility & Qualifications
Candidates must meet the following criteria to be considered for this postdoctoral fellowship:
- Education: A PhD/doctoral degree in Mechanics, Materials Science, Physics, or an engineering discipline (such as Mechanical, Civil, Aerospace, or Bio-engineering).
- Experimental Expertise: Proven hands-on experience in experimental mechanics, mechanical testing design, instrumentation, and material characterization.
- Technical Skills: Strong background in quantitative optical techniques, such as Digital Image Correlation (DIC), high-speed imaging, particle tracking, or optical microscopy.
- Interpersonal Skills: Ability to work independently, manage collaborative tasks, mentor junior students, and foster a supportive research environment.
- Language: Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.
- Research Philosophy: A strong commitment to open science and reproducible research methodologies.
What ETH Zurich Offers
- Access to world-class research infrastructure, computational resources, and specialized characterization facilities.
- A highly collaborative, international, and creative working environment.
- Competitive salary and social benefits in line with ETH Zurich’s standards (including attractive pension schemes, childcare support, and public transport discounts).
- Individual freedom to develop independent research directions and pursue professional development opportunities.
How to Apply
Interested candidates must submit their application exclusively through the ETH Zurich online job portal. Applications sent via email or postal services will not be accepted or processed.
Please prepare and upload the following documents in your application packet:
- A comprehensive Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- A complete list of publications.
- A statement of research interests (explaining your motivation and how your background aligns with the goals of this specific position).
- Contact details for at least two academic references.
For technical or scientific inquiries regarding the role, you may contact Prof. David Kammer via email at dkammer@ethz.ch (please note: do not send your application documents to this email address).
Last Date to Apply
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. There is no strict closing deadline, but interested candidates are highly encouraged to apply as soon as possible, as the position will be filled once a suitable candidate is identified.
Official Application Link
To submit your application or learn more about the position, please visit the official ETH Zurich portal via the link below:
Apply Now – Postdoctoral Researcher at ETH Zurich
