"Whole wood concept in teaching and research Architectural Senior / Post-doc position"

Position: Research and Teaching in Timber Architecture and Construction at EPFL

The Laboratory for Timber Constructions IBOIS at École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) invites applications for a research and teaching position in the field of timber architecture, computational design, and digital fabrication. This role is ideal for candidates who are passionate about innovative construction technologies, sustainability, and the transition to net-zero emissions through timber hybrid construction.

Mission

IBOIS aims to empower architects with its whole wood concept, focusing on the development of hybrid construction systems and logistics integrated with digital fabrication technologies. The lab works closely with industry partners and academic institutions to explore and implement sustainable solutions for modern construction practices. The goal is to scale wood construction and deliver environmentally optimal wood use scenarios, contributing to the global shift toward net-zero emissions.

Main Duties and Responsibilities

• Research Topics include:
• Integral attached timber log structures
• Hybrid timber bearing construction systems
• Self-bearing waterproof sustainable building envelopes
• Teaching Responsibilities:
• Lead an architecture studio at the bachelor’s and master’s levels at EPFL.
• Curate a groundbreaking architectural exhibition to showcase the transformation of architectural practice.
• Contribute to the creation of a postgraduate course in timber construction.
• Collaborative Research: Engage with multiple academic and industry partners to explore key leverage points for scaling timber construction and advancing environmentally sustainable design across the wood construction value chain.

Profile

• Educational Requirements:
• A PhD or Master’s degree in Architecture (or related fields).
• Required Skills:
• Experience with digital workflows and architectural modeling.
• Strong architectural design and detailing skills.
• Teaching experience in architectural design.
• Familiarity with timber construction and automated fabrication workflows.
• Strong communication and writing skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively and independently, synthesizing quantitative and qualitative information across disciplines.
• Additional Assets:
• Prior experience in communication or organizing exhibitions and publications.

We Offer

• A stimulating research environment at IBOIS within EPFL, located in the picturesque Lake Geneva region.
• Opportunity to collaborate on cutting-edge sustainable construction projects with a dynamic team of experts.
• Competitive salary and excellent working conditions.
• Supervision by Professor Yves Weinand, a leading figure in timber construction.
• The position is based in a collaborative, innovative and multidisciplinary environment that fosters creative thinking and hands-on exploration.

Information

• Contract Start Date: August 1st, 2025
• Activity Rate: 100%
• Contract Type: Fixed-term contract (CDD), renewable after 1 year
• Reference: 1463
• Application Deadline: April 30th, 2025

How to Apply

Only applications submitted through the EPFL website will be considered. Applicants should provide the following documents:

1. CV (including a list of publications).
2. Motivation letter.
3. Two references (names and contact details).
4. A short data science portfolio (optional but welcome).

Remarks

• Qualified female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.
• Applications will be considered on a rolling basis, so early application is advised.

This position offers a unique opportunity to engage in state-of-the-art architectural research, contribute to sustainable building technologies, and shape the future of timber construction at one of the world's leading scientific institutions.

If you're passionate about architecture, sustainability, and digital fabrication, this could be your next exciting step.