PhD position in Soft Matter in Zürich

90%-100%, Zurich, temporary

The Laboratory of Soft Materials at ETH Zurich is looking for a motivated and enthusiastic student, willing to take on a challenging project in the area of colloidal materials. The goal is to study the structure property relations in colloidal gels, with the main goal to elucidate the effects of local scale forces (including noncentral forces) on the rheological properties of such suspensions. The project will be a collaboration between the Laboratory of Soft Materials (Prof. Vermant) and the Laboratory of Soft Materials and Interfaces (Prof. Isa). Starting form unique and well defined model particles, state of the art rheological methods (including superposition and high frequency rheology) and ultrafast confocal micrscopy, we intend to obtain a deeper understanding of such complex, thixotropic materials with the goal to improve their performance. 

During the PhD studies you should becomen an expert on colloidal synthesis and characterization, advanced image processing and rheological investigations.The set of competences you acquire should enable you to continue on an academic track, but should also set you up for a career in an industrial environment.

The main duties will be to work towoards a PhD degree through research. In addition contributions to the functioning of the laboratory and teaching may be expected up to a maximum of 20% of your time.

A masters degree in materials science and engineering, chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, physics or chemistry or equivalent is required. A good background in transport phenomena, image processing, soft matter and rheology are a plus.

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specialising in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, yet forging connections all over the world, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.