PhD Position in Numerical and Experimental Studies of Non-spherical and Deformable Granular Systems

ETH Zürich Laboratory of Energy Science and Engineering

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

ETH Zurich is one of the worldwide leading universities and is renowned for its excellence in education, cutting-edge fundamental research and efforts to put new knowledge and innovations directly into practice.

The Laboratory of Energy Science and Engineering (D-MAVT) is working actively on developing numerical and experimental tools to probe single- and multiphase granular (particulate) systems.

Project background

Granular systems are ubiquitous in nature (e.g. rock avalanches or dunes) and of fundamental importance to industry. However, despite their widespread use and occurrence, many important phenomena, such as segregation, surface instabilities or jamming, i.e. the transition between a fluid- to solid-like state, are poorly understood. This project explores specifically the effect of particle deformability and non-sphericity on the dynamics and rheology of granular systems. Flexible particles deform under stress, while the deformation in turn affects the contact forces and stress transmission giving rise to complex rheological phenomena such as transient jamming or stress-induced orientational ordering. Although deformable, aspherical particle systems are expected to be rich in physical phenomena, they have been largely avoided owing to difficulties in making experimental measurements in such systems and in their numerical description.

This PhD position is part of a joint project that combines the expertise of two research groups (Laboratory of Energy Science and Engineering, Prof. Müller and the Institute for Biomedical Imaging Magnetic Resonance Technology, Prof. Prüssmann) and the PhD students hired by the two groups involved are expected to collaborate on a daily basis.

Job description

The objective of the PhD student hired by the Laboratory of Energy Science and Engineering is to

• Advance numerical tools to model non-spherical and deformable granular systems
• Establish camera-based experimental techniques such as photo-elasticimetry to determine contact forces and stress fields in such systems
• Develop and use machine-learning based models to correlate particle deformation and contact forces in 3D systems

Profile

• Applicants for this PhD position are expected to have a very good MSc degree in Mechanical Engineering, Physics or related disciplines
• Previous experience in numerical modelling or imaging techniques is desirable
• We are looking for highly motivated, committed, and creative individuals, able to work in a team and with excellent communication skills in English, both oral and written
• Working in a top-level research environment, the candidate will have a unique opportunity to develop their research abilities
• The position is available from July 2026 onwards

Workplace

Zurich

We offer

• An exciting working environment
• Opportunities to learn cutting edge techniques
• Perspectives for career development
• A diverse and interdisciplinary team

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 with the following documents:

• Motivation letter
• CV
• Transcripts
• Names of two potential reference providers

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

Further information about the Laboratory of Energy Science and Engineering can be found on our website. Questions regarding the position and recommendation letters should be directed to Prof. Christoph Müller by email muelchri@ethz.ch.