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

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 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.

We are committed to building diverse teams to promote equality and diversity. We offer you a flexible working environment that can be tailored to your personal circumstances.