PhD Student CNT Strain Sensor in Zürich

100%, Zurich, temporary

The Micro and Nanosystems Group at ETH Zurich pursues research on the field of carbon nanotube sensors and medical devices. We look for a prospective doctoral student on the field of carbon nanotube strain sensors.

In a collaborative European project a personalized computational and technological Digital Twin representing a human individual with embedded health prediction capability is explored. The Digital Twin will be capable to predict the trajectory of an infectious disease using – among others - early stage physiological measurements.

The Micro and Nanosystems Group will explore suspended CNTs on flexible substrates, allowing to pick-up the strain of a person’s chest to monitor respiratory activity with high sensitivity, small size and reduced motion artefacts. Individual CNTs operated in the large strain regime show higher sensitivities to strain than conventional strain gauges. The mismatch of Young’s moduli of the involved materials shall be compensated by design of the strain gauge. The mechanical interface to the skin is supported by non-obtrusive and eudermic microstructures.

The research requires working in semiconductor clean rooms, e.g. in the Binning and Rohrer Nanotechnology Center (BRNC), a joint cleanroom of ETH Zurich and IBM Research, and other laboratories at ETH Zurich for CNT growth and device integration. The applicants shall have experience in semiconductor processing, polymer chemistry and design of mechanical sensors. Additionally it is expected that the PhD student contributes to teaching, administrative and operational tasks of the group.

Admission of doctoral students at ETH Zurich depends on the fulfillment of all pre-requisites and follows the regulations of ETH Zurich

The candidate holds a Diploma or Master of Science degree in micro and nanosystems, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering or physics, with a strong competence in electronic devices, semiconductor fabrication, nanotechnology and polymer chemistry. She or he has substantial experience in semiconductor process technology, nanowires or nanotube devices, electrical characterization, material characterization, preferably based on a student project thesis in the field. The candidate’s scientific record and transcripts demonstrate excellence. She or he should have very good English knowledge, experience in presenting scientific results and excellent communication and writing skills. The candidate is a perfect team player and acts on her or his own initiative.

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.