PhD Position in Solid State Reactions, Nanofabrication, and Nanometallurgy at ETH Zurich ETH Zurich in Switzerland

ETH Zurich’s Laboratory for Nanometallurgy is advertising an open PhD position focused on solid state reactions in complex thin film architectures. The project sits at the intersection of nanofabrication, solid state reactions, and non-equilibrium thermodynamics, with an application-oriented goal of developing novel materials for on-chip heat delivery and self-healing applications.

The research environment is highly interdisciplinary and spans materials science, physics, and mechanical engineering. The group works on nanoscale materials and optical metamaterials, as well as the mechanics of hierarchical and biological materials, and emphasizes scientific rigor, intellectual curiosity, and teamwork. The successful candidate will join ETH Zurich’s MaP Doctoral School.

Eligibility highlights: applicants should hold a Master’s degree in Materials Science, Physics, Mechanical Engineering, or a similar field. Strong understanding of materials synthesis, structure-property relations, and heat transport is expected. Experience with nanoscale characterization methods such as FIB, XRD, or TEM is a significant advantage. Experience with finite element modeling (FEM) or molecular dynamics (MD) would be a plus. Strong English proficiency is required.

Funding: the post does not specify stipend or tuition details, but it is a PhD opening at ETH Zurich. The planned start date is September 2026 or by arrangement.

Application: submit a CV, transcripts, and a motivation letter via the ETH job portal. The deadline is 15 June 2026.