Research Associate – Development of processing strategies for ceramic-metal additive manufacturing

inspire AG is the leading Swiss competence centre 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 Materials, Processes and Sustainability at inspire offers in collaboration with the Advanced Manufacturing Lab (amlz) at ETH Zurich offers a position in the field of additive manufacturing

Our research group works on increasing the efficiency of electrical components by advanced manufacturing processes. For this, we develop new technologies for 3D shaping multi-material components. In combination with state-of-the-art equipment, we aim at developing the process for combining ceramics and metals by laser powder bed fusion (LPBF).

The main goal of your work is to develop a new process for LPBF of ceramics and copper alloys for electrical applications. The research project is part of a collaboration with industry and requires good understanding of material behavior in additive processes and characterization methods for ceramics/metal composites.

Your Tasks

• Develop new processing strategies for LPBF of ceramics and copper alloys.
• 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/metal multi-material specimens and components.
• Collaborate with an industrial partner.
• Perform feasibility studies.

Required experience

• 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 additive manufacturing and related theory.
• Material characterization (e.g., microscopy, mechanical testing).
• A good knowledge (written/oral) of English is a must. Knowledge of German is beneficial.

Required people skills

• 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 researcher, with the option to do a PhD thesis at ETH. Through the close cooperation with our project partner, you will quickly establish contacts to industry. In our young team you will work at the forefront of today's knowledge in multi-material additive manufacturing.