Postdoc position in Structural Dynamics and Metamaterials for Hybrid Steel-Timber Buildings 80-100 %
Shape the future of sustainable structures by combining advanced simulation with cutting-edge experiments and contributing directly to safer, more comfortable and resource-efficient construction.
Postdoc position in Structural Dynamics and Metamaterials for Hybrid Steel-Timber Buildings 80-100 %
School:
Architektur, Gestaltung und Bauingenieurwesen
Starting date:
01.02.2027 or by agreement (fixed-term position: 3 years)
Your role
- 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
Your profile
- 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
This is what we stand for
Zurich University of Applied Sciences ZHAW is one of Switzerland's largest multidisciplinary universities of applied sciences, with over 14'000 students and 3'400 faculty and staff.
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.
ZHAW is committed to gender-mixed and diverse teams in order to promote equality, diversity and innovation.
What you can expect
We offer working conditions and terms of employment commensurate with higher education institutions and actively promote personal development for staff in leadership and non-leadership positions. A detailed description of advantages and benefits can be found at Working at the ZHAW. The main points are listed below:
Contact
Dr. Andrea Colombi
Senior Researcher / Project Leader, ZHAW IBP
Irina Keiser
Recruiting Manager