Post-doc or Scientist in the Field of extreme micromechanics of core-shell structures

Materials science and technology are our passion. With our cutting-edge research, Empa's around 1,100 employees make essential contributions to the well-being of society for a future worth living. Empa is a research institution of the ETH Domain.

The Laboratory for Mechanics of Materials and Nanostructures explores novel microscale additive manufacturing and coating technologies and probes the mechanical properties of small scale structures under extreme conditions such as variable temperature, high strain rates, creep, or fatigue loading. In the context of an innovation project in cooperation with Exaddon AG, we are developing novel miniaturized probe pins for semiconductor testing through additive micro-manufacturing of coated core-shell structures combining high mechanical strength, creep resistance, and low-resistance electrical contacting.

Your tasks

You will work on basic science projects as well as an applied research project funded by InnoSuisse on the synthesis and analysis of miniaturized core-shell structures with application as probe pins in the semiconductor industry. You will be involved in the design and synthesis of materials and structures for improved functionality and performance in cooperation with other lab members. Furthermore, you will characterize them using cutting edge analytical techniques based on scanning and transmission electron microscopy as well as in situ micromechanical testing under extreme conditions (variable temperature, high strain rate, creep, fatigue).

Your profile

You must hold a PhD in Materials Science, Physics, Mechanical Engineering, or similar. A high level of motivation to work in close collaboration with industry, experimentalists and an international, multidisciplinary research teams is essential. Experience in mechanical design, experimentation, analysis and analytical techniques such as EBSD or EDX is desirable.

Our offer

We offer an international, highly stimulating research environment with excellent infrastructure for personal and professional development. The laboratory is equipped with state of the art equipment including a complete cleanroom processing line for lithography and galvanoforming, high level of materials analysis facilities, state of the art of in situ micromechanical instrumentation. You will be working at Empa in Thun (near Bern). The city is situated in a beautiful area near the mountains in the German-speaking part of Switzerland. The starting date is as soon as possible or upon mutual agreement. The project duration is 1 year.

We live a culture of inclusion and respect. We welcome all people who are interested in innovative, sustainable and meaningful activities - that's what counts.

We look forward to receiving your complete online application including a letter of motivation, CV, certificates, diplomas and contact details of two reference persons. Please submit these exclusively via our job portal. Applications by e-mail and by post will not be considered.