Postdoctoral Researcher or Scientist in Externally Bonded CFRP Strengthening of Concrete with Flexible Adhesives

Dübendorf, Switzerland

Unspecified

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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 position is hosted within the Innovative Concrete Structures Research Group at Empa, an interdisciplinary team specializing in structural engineering, advanced materials, and innovative concrete strengthening solutions. Our work combines experimental investigations, analytical modelling, and numerical simulations to develop and validate novel reinforcement systems. This position is part of an Innosuisse-funded collaborative project with industry partners, focusing on the development and performance assessment of externally bonded CFRP reinforcements using flexible adhesives.

Your tasks

• Development of externally bonded CFRP reinforcement systems for concrete strengthening using flexible adhesives, in close collaboration with industry partners.
• Perform material characterization and large-scale component testing, including the setup and use of conventional and advanced sensing technologies (e.g., displacement/strain sensors, DIC, fiber-optic sensing).
• Analyze experimental results and conduct analytical modelling and numerical simulations (e.g., finite element modelling) to support experimental findings and predict performance.
• Independently implement and execute the research, maintaining close communication with laboratory technicians, supervisors, and industrial partners.
• Document project progress and disseminate results through scientific publications and conference presentations.
• Supervise Bachelor’s and Master’s theses within the scope of the project.
• Contribute to the preparation of research proposals and technical reports.

Your profile

• PhD in civil/structural engineering (or relevant fields of mechanical engineering and alike) preferably with a focus on experimental, analytical and numerical investigation of externally bonded reinforcements out of fiber reinforced polymers (or similar) on concrete (or similar quasi-brittle materials).
• Experience with materials- and large(r)-scale component testing.
• Experience in laboratory testing and the use of conventional sensing equipment (displacement/strain sensors)
• If possible, experience in non-contact measurement techniques (i.e. DIC) and fiber-optic sensing technologies (i.e. distributed FO sensing)
• Experience in analytical and numerical modelling (FE) of externally bonded reinforcements and concrete.
• If possible, experience in programming (python, MatLab).
• Experience in scientific writing with proven track record.
• Very good English, German is a plus.
• Enthusiastic about learning new techniques and both independent and as a team member.

Our offer

We offer a full-time postdoctoral position at Empa in Dübendorf, Switzerland, starting as soon as possible or by agreement. The contract is for 2 years. Empa provides an inspiring and international research environment with state-of-the-art laboratory facilities, access to advanced experimental and computational resources, and close collaboration with leading academic and industrial partners. Empa supports professional development, networking opportunities, and a healthy work-life balance in a vibrant Swiss research community.

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.

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