PhD Position on Designing Buildings: The Architecture and Building Systems (A/S) research group at ETH Zurich is seeking dedicated candidates for a fully funded PhD position. This project focuses on leveraging earth and wood constructions combined with solar architecture while integrating passive and active supply systems for sustainable, energy-efficient buildings. The position starts in June 2025 or as mutually agreed upon, as part of the ThinkEarth project—a flagship initiative to advance climate-neutral construction.
PhD Position on Designing Buildings with Earth, Wood, and the Sun
Designation
PhD Researcher
Research Area
Sustainable building design, earth/wood constructions, solar architecture, passive/active energy systems, hygrothermal simulations.
Location
ETH Zurich, Switzerland.
Eligibility/Qualifications
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Academic Background | Master’s degree in Integrated Building Systems, Mechanical/Civil Engineering, or related fields. |
| Research Experience | Experimental research in hygrothermal properties and indoor climate monitoring. |
| Software Tools | Familiarity with modeling tools (CFX/Fluent, WUFI, ClimateStudio) and data analysis techniques. |
| Skills | Strong analytical, project-management, and communication skills. |
| Language | Excellent verbal and written English skills. |
| Interest | Passion for sustainable architecture and advancing knowledge in energy-efficient building systems. |
Description
The selected PhD researcher will work at the interface of two work packages from the ThinkEarth project, focusing on:
- Research Objectives:
- Understanding the optimal use of earth/wood as a construction material for walls, roofs, and interiors.
- Identifying beneficial combinations of passive and active thermal building systems to maximize energy efficiency, life-cycle emissions reduction, and indoor comfort.
- Responsibilities:
- Conduct hygrothermal simulations of earth/wood construction elements and assess passive/active solar building systems.
- Design and test experimental earth/wood prototypes, monitoring their thermal and moisture buffering capacities in ETH Zurich labs.
- Analyze the environmental performance of hybrid earth/wood components in the context of solar design systems.
- Present research findings at conferences, publish academic papers, and contribute to interdisciplinary collaborations.
- Expected Deliverables:
Develop detailed design and operational guidelines for sustainable and climate-neutral earth/wood construction.
How to Apply
Interested candidates must apply online through ETH Zurich’s application portal. Email or postal submissions will not be considered. Your application should include:
- Motivation Letter: Clearly outline your interest in the position and relevant experience.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV): A detailed overview of your education, research, and professional background.
- Project Descriptions: Summaries of your previous projects, highlighting your role and contributions.
- References: Provide contact details for 1-3 references or attach reference letters.
Benefits Offered
- Opportunity to work at ETH Zurich—one of the world’s leading universities in science and technology.
- Access to state-of-the-art lab facilities and interdisciplinary research teams.
- Public transport passes, sports facilities, childcare options, and pension benefits.
Last Date to Apply
Applications must be submitted by March 19, 2025.
ETH Zurich promotes equality and inclusivity and encourages applications from candidates of all backgrounds.
