Post-doc position on "innovative clamping and coupling technologies using iron-based shape memory alloys (Fe-SMAs)" in Dübendorf

The project is funded by the Swiss Innovation Agency (Innosuisse) with Empa "Advanced Materials Processing" group as a research partner and Hilti and re-fer AG as industry partners. The main goal of this project is to develop, for the first time, a fast and cost-effective coupling system for concrete reinforcements (rebars), made of Fe-SMAs. The project has different workpackages including finite element (FE) simulations and optimizations to design friction-based anchors, a series of static and fatigue tests to verify the structural integrity of the system with respect to civil engineering standards, and finally a real-size (or laboratory simulated) pilot project to demonstrate the effectiveness of the developed technology in construction side.

We are seeking a highly motivated and dedicated candidate with a PhD in Structural Engineering (Mechanical Engineering or similar) with a background in experimental and numerical analysis. A strong interest in interdisciplinary research and development is expected and the candidate should be interested to work closely with industry partners in the construction sector and research partners in Material Engineering domain. Experience with numerical analysis (e.g., FE method, optimizations and parametric design) as well as experimental studies (e.g., design of tests and analyzing the data) are needed in this project. Experience with the development, acquisition and management of research projects is a plus. Candidates should have excellent written and spoken language skills in English (German is a plus).