PhD Student – End of Life Emissions of Composite Materials upon Re-entry (SLICE DC4) Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne in Switzerland

The Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) invites applications for a fully funded PhD position (Doctoral Candidate DC4) focused on the end-of-life emissions of composite materials upon atmospheric re-entry, as part of the SLICE (Space Launch Impact on Climate and Environment) project. This interdisciplinary research and training program aims to bridge the gap between space engineering and climate science, addressing the environmental impacts of space launch systems throughout their life cycle, with a particular emphasis on launch vehicle emissions, atmospheric interactions, and system design for sustainability.

The successful candidate will join the Laboratory for Processing of Advanced Composites (LPAC), a center of excellence in polymer composites, and collaborate with the EPFL Space Center, which leads initiatives in space sustainability. The research will focus on analyzing the demisability and environmental impact of composite structures used in space applications, especially during re-entry. Tasks include experimental testing of composite materials, modeling their thermal and mechanical behavior, chemical analysis of degraded materials, and conducting life cycle assessments to propose optimized, environmentally friendly solutions for space launchers.

The position offers extensive training, international collaboration, and secondments at the University of Stuttgart (demisability analysis) and Ariane Group GmbH (case study analysis) in Germany. The candidate will benefit from a competitive salary according to MSCA regulations, including living, mobility, and family allowances if eligible, and will be employed for 36 months (plus 12 months for a 4-year PhD at EPFL). The project is funded by the Swiss State Secretariat for Education, Research and Innovation (SERI) as part of a Marie Skłodowska-Curie Doctoral Network.

Applicants must hold or be close to completing a Master's degree in aerospace engineering, materials science, chemical engineering, or a related field, and demonstrate strong knowledge in physical and analytical chemistry, materials science, and polymer composites. Excellent English communication skills and eligibility for the EPFL doctoral school are required. The MSCA Mobility Rule applies: candidates must not have resided or carried out their main activity in Switzerland for more than 12 months in the 36 months before recruitment and must not have been awarded a doctoral degree. Additional skills in eco-design, climate sciences, life-cycle assessment, and knowledge of French or German are desirable.

To apply, submit a single PDF containing the application form, cover letter, CV, references, certificates, and a short motivation video (max 30 seconds) via email to [email protected] with the subject 'Application for DC4 position' by 31 March 2026. For further details, visit the SLICE project website or contact the main supervisor, Dr. Veronique Michaud ([email protected]).