PhD Student in the field of thermoplastic shaping of ceramic materials using FDM/FFF printing in Bern

For a national project funded by SNF we are looking for a highly motivated student with master degree and a strong background in ceramic, preceramic polymers, additive manufacturing and flow simulation. The project focus is on the development of 3D printing of ceramic materials with commercial polymer filament printers (FDM printer) to achieve large structures without deformation.

Your Tasks

• Explore and develop polymeric binders for large ceramic structures
• Extrusion and 3D printing thermoplastic based ceramic based filament materials
• Rheological characterization and simulation of the flow behavior during extrusion of ceramic feedstocks
• Kinetic modelling of thermal treatment
• Characterization of crystalline materials by Rietveld refinement

Your Profile

You have a Master degree in chemistry, materials science, or mechanical engineering, or similar field. Previous experience with one or more of the following topics is required: Thermoplastic processing, e.g. ceramic injection molding, 3D printing of ceramic based filaments, simulation of flow behavior of thermoplastics, preceramic polymers, kinetic modelling, Rietveld refinement. The experimental nature of the work requires very high level of experimental skills, analytical mindset for interpreting results and the ability to design innovative experiments. You are a team player and your strengths include taking personal responsibility, excellence and flexibility to work and deliver results. Knowledge of German is beneficial but not mandatory.

We offer a PhD stundent position at the research institution, in collaboration with University of Bern, with excellent infrastructure and plenty of possibilities for personal and professional development. The position is for 3 year starting Sept. 2019.