Research Associate – Development of processing strategies for coloured ceramic near-net shaping with the option of a PhD thesis at ETH Zurich

inspire AG is the leading Swiss competence center for product innovation and advanced manufacturing. As a strategic partner of ETH Zurich, our mission is to transfer knowledge and technology from research to Swiss machine, electrical and metal industries.

The research group Laser Material Processing at inspire offers in collaboration with the Advanced Manufacturing Laboratory (AML) at ETH Zurich the position of a Research Associate in the field of processing strategies for coloured ceramic near-net shaping.

Our research group works on materials for advanced manufacturing processes. We develop new technologies for 3D shaping high-performance materials. In combination with state-of-the-art equipment, we aim at sintering novel ceramic formulations and shapes.

The main goal of your work is to develop a new process for coloured ceramic component shaping, by combining additive methods with field-assisted sintering technology. The research project is part of a collaboration with the Swiss industry and requires good understanding of material behaviour in sintering processes and characterisation methods for ceramics.

Your tasks:

• Develop new processing strategies for sintering coloured ceramics in an electric field
• Improve the available multi-material powder deposition methodology for ceramic powders
• Plan and perform experiments (DoE) in a laboratory environment
• Transfer of newly developed processes to products
• Analysis and testing of ceramic material and components
• Collaborate with academic partners and a Swiss industrial partner
• Take responsibility for ceramic material topics in the group
• Perform feasibility studies

• CH/EU/EFTA citizenship or a valid work permit for Switzerland
• Master’s degree (university) in materials science, mechanical engineering, or a related field
• Experience with ceramics and sintering technologies and related theory
• Material characterization of ceramics (e.g., microscopy, mechanical testing)
• A good knowledge (written/oral) of English is a must. Knowledge of German is beneficial
  
• Highly self-organized and structured way of working and solution orientation
• High motivation and willingness to learn new skills
• High level of teamwork, positive work attitude and creativity
• Willingness to supervise and support student projects

We offer a full-time position for a doctoral / postdoctoral researcher, depending on experience. Through the close cooperation with our project partners, you will quickly establish contacts within Swiss industry, and in our young team you will work at the forefront of today's knowledge in laser material processing.