Malik Wagih

The Materials Modeling Group at ETH Zurich, led by Prof. Malik Wagih, is launching in February 2026 and is inviting applications for fully funded PhD positions in computational materials discovery for extreme environments. The group is part of the Department of Materials at ETH Zurich, one of the world’s leading universities in science and technology, located in Switzerland. Research in the group focuses on materials discovery and design for challenging environments such as fusion reactors, hydrogen systems, and space applications. The work combines theory, physics-based simulations, machine learning, and autonomous workflows to accelerate the understanding and engineering of materials that can withstand conditions where conventional materials fail. Key topics include defect engineering, atomistic simulations, and the application of ML/AI to materials science. Applicants should have a strong background in Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, or related fields, with proficiency in programming and scientific computing. Experience with density functional theory, molecular dynamics, or machine learning is advantageous. Effective communication skills in English and an interest in metals, alloys, and interdisciplinary collaboration are expected. The position offers a fully funded, competitive salary according to ETH Zurich standards, access to advanced computational infrastructure, and the opportunity to work in an international, diverse, and inclusive research environment. ETH Zurich values equality, diversity, and sustainability, providing a supportive atmosphere for academic and personal growth. To apply, candidates should submit their application online through the ETH Zurich portal, including a cover letter, CV, contact information for at least two referees, and academic transcripts. Review of applications begins in March 2026 and continues until the positions are filled. Early applications are encouraged. For further information, contact Prof. Malik Wagih at [email protected] (no applications via email). For more details, visit the official job posting or the group’s LinkedIn announcement.

PhD opportunity in AI for Materials Modeling at ETH Zurich The Materials Modeling Group at ETH Zurich, led by Prof. Malik Wagih in the Department of Materials, is inviting applications for a fully funded PhD position starting in September 2026 or by mutual agreement. The project sits at the intersection of artificial intelligence, atomistic simulation, and materials science, with a focus on accelerating the discovery and design of structural alloys through defect engineering for extreme environments such as fusion energy and space applications. The PhD research will develop machine-learning methods for atomistic materials modeling. Possible directions include machine-learned interatomic potentials, physics-informed machine learning, and generative models. The successful candidate will join one of the group’s first doctoral students and help shape the research culture and scientific direction of the lab. Applicants should hold a Master’s degree, or expect to complete one before the position begins, in materials science, physics, engineering, computer science, applied mathematics, or a related field. Strong programming and scientific computing skills are required, along with a strong interest in applying AI to problems in the physical sciences. Prior experience or coursework in machine learning, density functional theory, or molecular dynamics is considered an advantage. Good communication skills in English are also expected. The position is fully funded with a competitive salary according to ETH standards and includes access to state-of-the-art computational infrastructure in an interdisciplinary and international research environment. The application deadline is 2026-07-15. Applications must be submitted online through ETH Zurich’s portal only. Required documents include a CV, contact details for at least two referees, academic transcripts in English from all degrees (unofficial copies accepted), and a one-page statement describing your three proudest achievements and their relevance to the role. For questions about the position, contact Prof. Malik Wagih at [email protected]. No applications by email or postal mail will be considered.

ETH Zurich is advertising a fully funded PhD position in AI for Materials Modeling in the Materials Modeling Group led by Prof. Malik Wagih in the Department of Materials. The project sits at the intersection of artificial intelligence , atomistic simulation , and materials science . Research directions may include machine-learned interatomic potentials , physics-informed machine learning , and generative models . The group’s broader research aims to accelerate the discovery and design of structural alloys through defect engineering , with applications in fusion energy and space materials . Applicants should have, or be close to completing, a Master’s degree in materials science, physics, engineering, computer science, applied mathematics, or a related field. Strong programming and scientific computing skills are expected, along with a clear interest in applying AI to physical science problems. Experience with machine learning, density functional theory, or molecular dynamics is considered an advantage. English communication skills are required. The position is fully funded and offers a competitive salary according to ETH standards, plus access to state-of-the-art computational infrastructure and an interdisciplinary, international research environment. Deadline: July 15, 2026. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. How to apply: Submit your application via the ETH Zurich online portal only. Required documents include a CV, contact details for at least two referees, English transcripts from all degrees (unofficial copies accepted), and a one-page statement describing your three proudest achievements and why they fit the role.