Scientist position in the field of "Steel Structures" in Dübendorf

The position is a core scientific one within one of the key research areas of the Structural Engineering Research Laboratory at Empa. The applicant is expected to be involved in the research projects in Sustainable Metallic Structures (SUMS) research topic on steel constructions at national and international levels. The main focus of the fundamental experimental and numerical as well as applied research lies in multidisciplinary research from material to structural level, in particular, experimental and numerical research on new structural materials such as additively manufactured metals, shape memory alloys, fibre composites and adhesively bonded joints. We apply advanced simulation and design concepts including FE analysis, parametric design and optimization techniques for digital design and robotic manufacturing of lightweight metallic structures. Excellent experimental facilities consisting of a large and well-equipped laboratory including a large-scale metal wire and arc additive manufacturing setup and several small and medium scale additive manufacturing (AM) machines will be available.

We are seeking a highly motivated and dedicated candidate with a Master Degree and a PhD in civil or mechanical engineering (or closely related disciplines) with a background in experimental and numerical research in the field of steel structures with a particular knowledge in robotic steel/metal manufacturing. A strong interest in interdisciplinary research-and-development projects is expected and the candidate shall be interested to work closely with partners in the Construction Sector and Material Engineering domain. Scientific excellence has to be proven by relevant publications, successful acquisition of project funding and management of research projects, supervision of master and PhD students and comparable accomplishments. Experience in material testing and robotic fabrication are of advantage. Candidates shall have excellent written and spoken language skills in English and preferably also in German. In addition to the research duties, the candidate is expected to lead and conduct typical service work projects (for different industrial clients) in the field of structural engineering performed in our laboratory.

For further information about the position (only for urgent matters) please contact Dr Elyas Ghafoori, and visit our websites and

We look forward to receiving your online application including a letter of motivation (max. 1 page), CV (including publications), diplomas and contact details of two referees (former employers/supervisors) to be included at the end of CV. Please upload the requested documents through our webpage. The application deadline is 20th July 2022. Applications via email will not be considered.

Empa, Patricia Nitzsche, Human Resources, Ueberlandstrasse 129, 8600 Dübendorf, Switzerland.