PhD Position in Sustainable Safe-by-Design (SSbD) for Green Electronics and Bio-based Materials Empa in Switzerland

Empa, a leading research institution within the ETH Domain in Switzerland, is offering a fully funded PhD position in the Technology & Society Laboratory (TSL), specifically within the ERAM group. The laboratory is renowned for its interdisciplinary research dedicated to sustainability transformation, focusing on the analysis and evaluation of novel materials and technologies from the perspectives of circularity, life cycle impacts, and safety. The ERAM group has extensive expertise in Safe-by-Design (SSbD), integrating methods such as Mass Flow Analysis (MFA), Life Cycle Analysis (LCA), and semi-quantitative decision support for sustainable innovation.

This PhD project aims to adapt and advance the SSbD framework in the field of green electronics, with a particular emphasis on bio-based materials and their applications in agriculture, health, and textiles. The goal is to identify application fields with high environmental sustainability potential. The position is part of the FERNS project (Holistic integration of eco-Friendly dEsign tools and mateRials, fabrication techNologies for the responsible co-creation of future Sustainable integrated electronic systems), an EU MCSA Doctoral Network that offers 15 parallel, fully funded 3-year PhD positions across Europe.

As a PhD student, you will be based at Empa in St. Gallen, Switzerland, under the supervision of Claudia Som (principal supervisor), Dr. Roland Hischier, and Prof. Dr. Bernd Nowack (co-supervisors). You will also be enrolled at CML Leiden University in the Netherlands, with Prof. Jose M. Mogollón as your doctoral advisor. The Institute of Environmental Sciences at CML provides expertise in prospective LCA, upscaling methodologies for emerging technologies, and integration into SSbD frameworks.

The research environment at Empa is highly stimulating and interdisciplinary, with over 50 scientists dedicated to sustainability transformation. You will have opportunities to collaborate with a network of 15 PhD students, present your work at scientific conferences, and publish in high-quality journals. Personal and professional development support is provided throughout the program.

Eligibility: Applicants must hold a Master's degree in environmental or natural sciences, engineering, or a related field. Experience in computational modeling is required, and preference is given to candidates with expertise in LCA, MFA, risk assessment, and green electronics. Excellent communication skills and fluency in English (written and oral) are essential. EU mobility rules apply: applicants must not have lived or carried out their main activity in Switzerland for more than 12 months in the past 3 years immediately prior to the call deadline.

Funding: The position is fully funded for 3 years through the EU MCSA Doctoral Network, including a stipend and support for conference travel and publication.

Application: Apply online via the provided application link. Prepare your CV, cover letter, and supporting documents, and ensure you meet the eligibility criteria. For questions, contact the HR partner at Empa.

Empa values inclusion and respect, welcoming applicants interested in innovative, sustainable, and meaningful research activities.