PhD Position in Fire Behaviour of Timber-encased Steel Composite Structures

PhD Position in Fire Behaviour of Timber-encased Steel Composite Structures
100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The Steel and Composite Structures Group in the Institute of Structural Engineering (IBK), led by Prof Andreas Taras at ETH Zurich, has an open position for a full-time (100%) PhD student in Fire Behaviour of Timber-encased Steel Composite Structures.

The position is available with a flexible start date, yet to be filled as soon as possible, starting from February 2026.

The available PhD position is connected to a 4-year research project, funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation, and it is led by Dr Valentino Vigneri, Senior Researcher and Lecturer of the group of Steel and Composite Structures at ETH Zurich. The project team also includes Dr Daniele Forni from SUPSI (University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Southern Switzerland), with whom close collaboration is foreseen throughout the project. The scientific support of the group of Timber Structures at ETH Zurich, led by Prof. Andrea Frangi, is also planned for some of the experimental activities.

Project background

The research project sets out to advance the understanding and predictive modelling of steel profiles embedded in timber under accidental loading, such as fire and explosion, which are becoming more relevant for ensuring resilient structures. This will be achieved through tasks involving multi-scale test campaigns along with advanced analyses and critical interpretation of the mechanical behaviour. These include: (1) characterisation of the thermal, thermomechanical, and dynamic behaviour of building materials and structural components, i.e. steel, timber, and adhesive layers through small- and full-scale testing; (2) experimental campaigns on TESC members under fire and (3) blast loading; (4) validation of physics-based numerical models to simulate the thermomechanical and dynamic response of TESC members; (5) numerical analysis of the interaction between fire and blast loading to the load-bearing performance of TESC members in multi-hazard scenarios, e.g. fire-induced explosions, based on ad-hoc material tests under combined elevated temperatures and high-strain rates.

Job description

Within this broader framework, the foreseen PhD project will focus on the fire behaviour of TESC members, contributing experimental data and validated modelling frameworks to the overall goal of establishing a deeper understanding of the structural behaviour of TESC members in fire and the influence of the timber encasement on the performance.

The responsibilities of the successful candidate will comprise:

• Designing, planning, and executing experimental fire tests on TESC members and subassemblies, including instrumentation, data post-processing and interpretation,
• Characterising the thermal and mechanical behaviour of steel, timber, and structural adhesives at elevated temperatures, with focus on failure mechanisms and constitutive material models,
• Developing thermomechanical physics-based models and/or numerical frameworks to predict the response and failure of TESC members under different fire scenarios and loading conditions,
• Actively participating in research activities, including publishing in peer-reviewed journals and presenting outcomes at international conferences and workshops.

The research project will be managed and coordinated by Dr Valentino Vigneri, while the principal doctoral supervisor will be Prof. Andreas Taras.

Further information about the doctorate at ETH Zürich can be found in the AVETH survival guide.

Profile

For the open position, we are looking for a highly motivated doctoral candidate who meets the following requirements:

• An MSc degree (or equivalent) in civil engineering, structural engineering, mechanical engineering or a closely related discipline,
• A solid background and interest in steel and composite structures, structural fire safety and advanced modelling of structures (e.g. finite element modelling using ABAQUS, ANSYS or OpenSees),
• Excellent communication skills in English (oral and written),
• Strong enthusiasm to conduct research both independently and collaboratively within an interdisciplinary and international research environment.

Additional beneficial competences are:

• Knowledge in the mechanical behaviour and design of timber structures,
• Experience in experimental testing and related data acquisition systems, preferably in fire conditions,
• Working knowledge of German and/or Italian is helpful for the offered position,
• Extensive knowledge of steel structures for engaging in teaching activities of the research group.

Workplace
Workplace
We offer

The open position is a full-time position initially categorised as an ETH rate Standard, with the possibility of an upgrade to a higher rate based on suitability and a willingness to engage in teaching and other scientific service activities of the research group. Further, you can expect:

• Opportunity to contribute to a cutting-edge research project on the fire behaviour of innovative Timber-Encased Steel Composite (TESC) members, within an interdisciplinary team of researchers,
• Close collaboration with academics and research partners (University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Southern Switzerland and Timber Structures Group at ETH Zurich),
• Access to state-of-the-art experimental and computational facilities, including fire testing equipment, advanced data acquisition systems, as well as high-performance computing resources for advanced numerical modelling,
• An intellectually stimulating and supportive environment within the Institute of Structural Engineering (IBK) at ETH Zurich, committed to excellence in research and teaching,
• A competitive salary and flexible working conditions in accordance with ETH Zurich regulations,
• Opportunities for professional growth by attending conferences and participating in national and international committee meetings to share scientific knowledge at the standardisation level.

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.

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 prepared in English (please make sure your last name is on all the documents and in the file names) until :

• Cover letter (max 1 page),
• CV (including list of publications if applicable),
• An official academic transcript/list of courses completed, including grades (please upload a single PDF for the transcript),
• A brief statement explaining how you will approach the topic, linking it to your experience and relevant work from the literature (max 600 words, excluding bibliography, in PDF format),
• Names and contact details of two references.

Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered.

Further information about Steel and Composite Structures Group at ETH Zurich can be found on our website.

Questions regarding the position should be directed to Dr Valentino Vigneri via email at (no applications).

---