We are offering a
Postdoc position on simulation of electrospun fiber formationin the Experimental Continuum Mechanics group based at Empa and the Institute for Mechanical Systems at ETH Zurich. One focus of the group is the development of mathematical models of soft materials systems, advanced techniques to inform these models from dedicated experiments and numerical simulation methods for use in analytical and predictive computational tools.
Electrospinning is a versatile method to produce membranes of nano- and microfibers from a wide range of polymers. The properties of the membranes depend on those of the single fibers, which are in turn affected by the fibers’ internal structure. The development of computational methods to predict the formation of fiber morphology therefore represents an important step towards rationalizing and tuning the characteristics of electrospun materials.
The postdoc at Empa will establish theoretical and computational methods to simulate the formation of electrospun fiber morphology. The main aspects of the work will concern the formulation of models to describe fiber formation from the jet of polymer solution that solidifies under extremely large deformations, and the development of corresponding numerical simulation techniques.
We are looking for a highly motivated scientist with a doctoral degree in engineering, materials science or physics and a strong background in computational material modeling, continuum mechanics, expertise in the phase-field approach, and a basic understanding of phase separation processes and the physics of polymers. You have experience in programming and scripting languages as well as finite element analysis. You take responsibility for your project, like to work both independently and in a team and possess excellent written and oral communication skills in English.
We are offering a challenging position for 1.5 years in a collaborative research environment with modern and excellent infrastructure.