PhD position in Experimental mechanics

PhD position in Experimental mechanics
100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The Computational Mechanics Group in the Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering of ETH Zurich is seeking one doctoral student.

The position is funded by the SOFRA(CT) project and aims at devising innovative testing approaches to investigate the failure of elastomers. The goal of the PhD project is to develop cutting edge experimental procedures involving X-Ray computed tomography (CT), digital image/volume correlation and targeted manipulation of polymeric chains (i.e., mechanophore additions) to gain a deeper insight into the failure process of polymeric rubbers. The PhD student will work in the team of Dr. P. Carrara and will be in charge of testing the behavior of different elastomers up to failure, analyze the results with novel digital and numerical approaches and contribute to develop models to describe the observed phenomena. The PhD student will also work in close contact with another PhD student in charge of the modeling and simulation of the obtained results.

Job description

• You will have the unique opportunity to learn, develop and apply a range of cutting-edge modeling and computational techniques
• You will have the possibility to work in close contact with computational researchers and, thus, gain experience also in this field
• You will work in an interdisciplinary and fast-paced research environment, interact with researchers with different specializations, gain skills in computational technologies, and interact with world-class collaborators

Profile

• Recently obtained master degree in engineering or physics or applied mathematics with outstanding grades
• Excellent knowledge of continuum mechanics (including large deformations)
• Excellent coding skills, especially with python and/or C/C++
• Prior experience in using digital volume correlation technique is considered an advantage
• Knowledge and experience with fracture and/or elastomer materials synthesis and/or phase-field modeling and/or finite elements modeling are considered an advantage
• A keen interest in experimental mechanics and in scientific methods and research in general
• Ability to work both independently and in team with other colleagues
• Interest in scientific collaborations with computational and theoretical groups

Workplace
Workplace
We offer

• Your job with impact: Become part of ETH Zurich, which not only supports your professional development, but also actively contributes to positive change in society
• You can expect numerous benefits, such as public transport season tickets and car sharing, a wide range of sports offered by the ASVZ, childcare and attractive pension benefits

We value diversity and sustainability

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. Sustainability is a core value for us – we are consistently working towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So are we.

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

• CV
• full transcripts from undergraduate studies (both Bachelor and Master)
• a brief (1-page) motivation letter
• at least 2 names of referees (with email addresses and phone numbers)

Please note that the review of applications will begin on December 1, 2025 and continue until the position is filled. Applications should be submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered.

Questions regarding the position should be directed to Dr. Pietro Carrara, email: (no applications).

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

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