Postdoc position in Structural Dynamics and Metamaterials for Hybrid Steel–Timber Buildings 80–100 %

What you will be responsible for

• Lead the design and optimisation of metamaterial resonators for target frequency ranges (1–20 Hz for human-induced vibrations and higher for machinery and ground-borne sources)
• Develop multiscale models linking resonator properties to structural response (COMSOL, Abaqus, reduced-order models; HPC codes where needed)
• Design and fabricate reduced-scale prototypes using additive manufacturing and workshop techniques
• Plan and run experimental campaigns on scaled hybrid subsystems, from laboratory scale (1:10) to larger specimens (1:3–1:2) at ETH Zurich
• Work with Empa on timber-specific aspects (material variability, connections and interfaces); compare metamaterial and conventional solutions and derive design-oriented principles
• Co-supervise the PhD student, publish results in leading journals, and contribute to project coordination and dissemination

What makes you a great fit

• PhD in civil, structural or mechanical engineering, applied physics or a related field
• Proven expertise in structural dynamics, wave propagation or mechanical metamaterials
• Strong numerical skills (finite element modelling, ideally COMSOL and/or Abaqus) and programming skills (e.g. Python or MATLAB)
• Experience with dynamic testing and vibration measurement (e.g. laser Doppler vibrometry, accelerometers)
• Knowledge of timber or steel–timber hybrid construction is an advantage
• Publication record in peer-reviewed journals
• Fluent English; German is an advantage
• Independent, collaborative and keen to bridge research and engineering practice

About your workplace

The ZHAW Zurich University of Applied Sciences is the largest university of applied sciences in German-speaking Switzerland, with around 15,000 students, more than 11,000 continuing education participants and over 3,700 employees.

We are committed to building diverse teams in order to promote equality and inclusion. We offer a flexible working environment that can be adapted to your individual circumstances.

School of Architecture, Design and Civil Engineering

The ZHAW School of Architecture, Design and Civil Engineering offers Bachelor's and Master's degree programmes and is one of the most established yet innovative educational institutions of its kind in Switzerland. In accordance with its statutory mandate, it carries out teaching, research and development, and continuing professional development, as well as providing services to third parties. We offer you an exciting, varied and challenging role in a dynamic environment. The position is based at the school's headquarters in Winterthur.

Institute of Building Technology and Process

The Institute of Building Technology and Process IBP, together with two other institutes, provides services in teaching, research, and continuing education. In research, IBP focuses on hybrid lightweight construction, digital technologies in design and fabrication, building energy systems and technologies, as well as digital construction processes and management. At the intersection of architecture and engineering, we develop practical approaches and solutions in collaboration with industry partners. We offer an exciting, varied, and challenging role in a dynamic and ever-changing environment, working alongside an interdisciplinary and highly motivated team.

Why work at the ZHAW?

Here, you will find the space to shape developments and make a difference. We value respect and promote diversity. Discover what makes working at the ZHAW so special.

Any questions? You’ll find the answers here!

Do you have any questions about the application process?

Irina Keiser
irina.keiser@zhaw.ch

Do you have any questions about the advertised vacancy?

Dr. Andrea Colombi
Senior Researcher / Project Leader, ZHAW IBP
andrea.colombi@zhaw.ch

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