Two PhD student positions in experimental fluid dynamics in Zürich

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The research in the newly established group examines both fundamental and applied questions in various small-​scale multiphase fluid phenomena, such as bubble and droplet dynamics and the resulting fast flows. One of our key objectives is to control bubble oscillations to exploit their energy-​focusing characteristics. We also develop experimental techniques to observe and characterise high-​speed multiphase fluid phenomena optically and acoustically. The group is part of the , which pursues a broad range of experimental, numerical and theoretical research efforts in a friendly and inclusive environment with state-of-the-art infrastructure.

Acoustic droplet vaporisation (ADV) is the phase-change process of a low-boiling-point liquid droplet into a gas bubble activated by acoustic waves. They have similar extraordinary qualities to ultrasound contrast agent micro-bubbles, which can be injected into the bloodstream and are widely used to enhance contrast in medical ultrasound imaging and show great promise in a number of therapeutic applications, such as drug delivery and blood-brain barrier opening. However, phase-change agents are activated into bubbles in the focal zone of the ultrasound transducer only when acoustic energy of sufficient quantity is delivered, thus improving spatial and temporal precision.

We seek to appoint two PhD students to conduct experimental research addressing open questions on acoustic droplet vaporisation for biomedical applications. One of the students will investigate the interaction between acoustically vaporised micrometric droplets and a boundary to assess and predict their sonoporation dynamics. The other student will be developing novel ways to facilitate and control the acoustic droplet vaporisation in order to optimise the required acoustic driving. You will design your own experimental setup exploiting the state-of-the-art ultra-high-speed imaging and acoustic facilities available in our lab. You will also couple your experimental findings with appropriate models to describe and predict the vaporisation physics. In addition to research, you will contribute to teaching and lab activities in the institute.

Starting date: 1 June 2021, or later. Negotiable.

Duration of appointment: Maximum 4 years.

The requirements include a Masters degree in mechanical, aeronautical or chemical engineering, physics, or a related field. You should be curiosity-driven, creative, open-minded and independent, and have good communication skills, fluency in English and the willingness to fully commit yourself as a part of an international team. You should also have strong interests in experimental fluid mechanics, multi-phase flows, acoustics, and similar. Experience in experimental research is an advantage, but not necessary. However, you should be excited about the prospect of working in a lab.

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.