EPFL
Top university
Just Landed
Posted Yesterday
Postdoctoral Researcher in Advanced Flexure-Mechanism Design (W/M) EPFL in Switzerland
Degree Level
Postdoc
Field of study
Mechanical Engineering
Funding
Fundamental research supported by the Swiss National Science Foundation, with an industrial collaboration supported by the Swiss Innovation Agency; renewable one-year fixed-term postdoctoral contract with competitive remuneration.
Deadline
Dec 1, 2026
Country
Switzerland
University
EPFL
Apply for this position
Keywords
Suggested positions
About this position
The Micromechanical and Horological Design Laboratory (INSTANT-LAB) at EPFL is recruiting a postdoctoral researcher to advance the design of flexure-based mechanisms. These compliant mechanisms rely on elastic deformation rather than conventional joints, enabling precise motion in demanding environments where frictionless operation, repeatability, reduced maintenance, and monolithic construction are especially valuable.
The project focuses on developing a new design and modelling framework for flexure-based mechanisms that can balance multiple performance criteria while also remaining robust to manufacturing tolerances. The research sits at the intersection of analytical modelling, numerical simulation, precision mechanical design, and experimental validation.
The successful candidate will join an established laboratory with more than fourteen years of expertise in this area, an existing patent portfolio, and long-standing industrial collaborations. The work is supported by fundamental research funding and an industrial partnership, and it involves close interaction with an industrial partner whose products use adjustable-stiffness flexure-based load cells.
The position is based at the EPFL campus in Neuchâtel and offers access to state-of-the-art facilities within a stimulating scientific and entrepreneurial environment.
Funding details
Fundamental research supported by the Swiss National Science Foundation, with an industrial collaboration supported by the Swiss Innovation Agency; renewable one-year fixed-term postdoctoral contract with competitive remuneration.
What's required
PhD in Mechanical Engineering, Microengineering, Robotics, or a closely related field; expertise in analytical and numerical structural mechanics, mechanical design, and precision engineering; at least two peer-reviewed journal publications; strong experimental skills and a practical, hands-on approach; experience in industrial collaborations is an asset; strong motivation for interdisciplinary research; ability to work independently and contribute effectively to a team; creative, solution-oriented, and open-minded attitude; excellent command of English, with French considered an advantage.
How to apply
Apply through the online platform only. Submit a motivation letter, detailed CV with publication list and final grades, contact details of at least three references, and two or three representative publications or your doctoral thesis by 1 December 2026.
Make your next move.
Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.
Make your next move.
Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.