Scientific Assistant with option of a PhD studies at ETH “Alloy and surface structure development for diamond nano-brazing”

Inspire AG is the Swiss competence centre for production technology and a strategic partner of ETH Zurich for technology transfer. Our goal is to swiftly implement scientific findings into industrial practice.

The Materials, Processes and Sustainability and Laser Material Processing research groups at inspire offer in collaboration with the Advanced Manufacturing Lab (amlz) at ETH Zurich the position for a Scientific Assistant.

Our research groups work on efficient and low-scrap manufacturing processes for diamond micro tools. For this, we aim at further developing diamond surface structuring by laser ablation, and novel nanomaterials for enhancing wettability and strength of the joint. In combination with state-of-the-art equipment, the goal is to develop and implement a new, low-temperature brazing process for diamonds.

The main goals of your work are (1) to develop a surface modification on diamonds that enhances its wettability and adhesion, as well as (2) modifying a silver-based nano-braze alloy to increase wettability and strength. The research project is part of a collaboration with an industrial partner and requires good understanding of the interplay of diamond surface structure and chemistry with metal in the liquid state. Your interests in material behaviour in joining processes, laser processing, and related characterisation methods is essential.

Your Tasks:

• Development of new braze alloy formulations.
• Development of surface textures on diamond by laser ablation.
• Plan and perform experiments (DoE) in a laboratory environment.
• Analysis and testing of diamond/metal compound specimens.
• Transfer of newly developed materials and processes to an industrial environment.
• Collaborate with an industrial partner. 

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.
• Material characterization (e.g., microscopy, mechanical testing).
• Experience with laser processes and related theory is of advantage.
• 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 scientific assistant, 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 laser surface structuring and alloy development.

Start: 1 January 2025 or by agreement.