PhD Position: Solid State Reactions in Complex Thin Film Architectures

Immigration Policy Lab

Immigration Policy Lab

Software Engineering, IT

Zürich, Switzerland

Posted on May 18, 2026

PhD Position: Solid State Reactions in Complex Thin Film Architectures

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

We are seeking a candidate to develop novel materials for on-chip heat delivery and self-healing at the Laboratory for Nanometallurgy, ETH Zürich. The project focuses on the intersection of nanofabrication, solid state reactions and non-equilibrium thermodynamics. Our research spans from nanoscale materials and optical metamaterials to the mechanics of hierarchical and biological materials. We aim to create materials with unprecedented properties by controlling structure at the atomic and nanometer scales.

Job description

  • Material Design: Develop and characterize hierarchical materials capable of localized, on-chip heat delivery and autonomous repair (self-healing)
  • Nanofabrication: Utilize advanced cleanroom techniques to fabricate structures at the nanometer and atomic scales
  • Fundamental Research: Investigate the physics of solid-state reactions
  • Experimental Analysis: Employ high-resolution microscopy and thermal characterization tools to validate material performance and structural integrity

Profile

  • A Master's degree in Materials Science, Physics, Mechanical Engineering or similar
  • Strong understanding of materials synthesis, structure-property relations and transport phenomena
  • Hand-on experience with nanoscale characterization, e.g. FIB, XRD or TEM is a significant advantage
  • Additional experience in finite element modeling (FEM) or molecular dynamics (MD) would be a plus
  • Proficiency in English (written and oral) is essential

Workplace

Workplace




We offer

We are a highly international group and foster a culture of intellectual curiosity and scientific rigor. Science in our lab is a team effort and we highly value and encourage the exchange of knowledge across different sub-groups. The candidate will be part of ETH Zurich's MaP Doctoral School.

Interested in joining our team? Take a look at our Website to see our latest work and check out our social media (LinkedIn, Bluesky, X) for a glimpse into our lab culture.

Working, teaching and research at ETH Zurich

We value diversity and sustainability

In line with our values, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to find out how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish. Sustainability is a core value for us – we are consistently working towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So are we.

We look forward to receiving your online application until 15 June 2026 with the following documents:

  • CV
  • Transcripts
  • Motivation letter

Further information about the Laboratory for Nanometallurgy can be found on our Website.
Questions regarding the position should be directed to LNM_OpenPosition@mat.ethz.ch (no applications).

Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered.

The planned starting Date is September 2026 or by arrangement.

We would like to point out that the pre-selection is carried out by the responsible recruiters and not by artificial intelligence.

About ETH Zürich

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.