Postdoc position: friction in meta-materials

The Chair of Computational Mechanics of Building Materials in the Institute for Building Materials at ETH Zurich has an opening for a postdoctoral researcher in the mechanics of meta-materials focused on friction. The position is available with starting date of 1st April 2023 or soon thereafter.

The Chair of Computational Mechanics of Building Materials conducts research at the interface between mechanics, materials and scientific computing. Research activities are focused on modelling the link between micro- to mesoscale properties of engineering and biological materials and their macroscale mechanical performance. The centre of our interests is a dynamic fracture, earthquake source mechanics, topologically interlocked materials, early-age structural build-up of cement, corrosion-induced cracking in concrete, and granular material mechanics. The overall objective is a fundamental understanding of the multi-scale and multi-physical mechanics of materials and the development of predictive numerical tools for the mechanical failure of materials and structures.

This position is part of a project funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation, which will support a total of four researchers, and focuses on the development of interfaces with unconventional mechanical properties. This postdoc position will focus on the friction properties of meta-materials. The objective is to study the mechanical properties of interfaces in architected materials with a particular focus on friction. Both numerical and experimental approaches will be developed and applied to test the interfaces. You will be responsible for the development of the experimental testing procedure and the numerical simulation framework. You will apply these methods to analyze the mechanical properties of various meta-material designs. This postdoc position provides opportunities to co-lead a research project, co-supervise graduate students, and establish and lead collaborations with research partners.

• You hold a PhD degree in mechanics, material science, physics or a related discipline and have a background in experimental mechanics.
• Ideally, you have some experience in developing and implementing experimental testing procedures and/or numerical modelling frameworks, and you are familiar with mechanical meta-materials.
• Additionally, you have excellent communication skills in English (oral and written) and you look forward to working independently in an interdisciplinary and international research team. We encourage applications from enthusiastic and dedicated individuals.

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.