PhD Position in Engineering the Microstructure of Bacterial Cellulose for Sustainable Applications
Veröffentlicht:
05 September 2024Pensum:
100%- Arbeitsort:Schweiz - Zürich & Schaffhausen
PhD Position in Engineering the Microstructure of Bacterial Cellulose for Sustainable Applications
100%, Zurich, fixed-term
We are seeking a PhD student to work on an interdisciplinary project that uses soft matter physics and material science concepts to develop the next generation of architected bacterial cellulose for fundamental and sustainable applications.
Project background
Pressing challenges in climate change require the development of the next generation of renewable materials addressing cooling, CO2 capture and energy production. Materials produced by bacteria (e.g. cellulose) are promising candiates to be used in a sustainable future as they are manufactured using low energy budgets and can upcycle waste. While biofabricated materials have showed promising applications in food, tissue engineering and energy, fundamental physical understanding of bacteria-made materials, as well as robust processing methods to control their structure across scales are still missing.
Job description
The goal of this project is to develop novel methods to engineer the structure of bacterial cellulose at different length scales and make functional materials for sustainable applications. To this end, we will use the combination of bottom-up and top-down approaches to carefully control structural features at various length scales. We will then characterize a range of fascinating structure-function relationships of these biomaterials with various techniques. These include different types of light and electron microscopy, mechanical tests and X-rays. Finally, at the end of the project, we will collaborate with the Digital Building Technologies lab at the Department of Architecture at ETH to explore innovative integrations of biofabricated materials and sustainable buildings.
Profile
- You have a master’s degree in material science, physics, chemistry or mechanical engineering.
- You have a strong background in the physics and chemistry of colloidal systems.
- You also have prior experience with optical/confocal microscopy, soft (bio)materials and image analysis techniques (Matlab/Python/Mathematica).
- You are curious, a good team player, and have a great motivation to learn and work independently at the forefront of sustainable materials.
- You have excellent oral and written communication skills in english.
Workplace
Workplace
We offer
- An open and collaborative research environment
- Access to and training in cutting-edge methodologies and instrumentation
- Possibilities to develop entrepreneural skills and training
We value diversity
Curious? So are we.
We look forward to receiving your online application with the following documents:
- CV
- A short motivation letter describing how your background fits the profile, your scientific interests and scientific achievements to date (max. 1 page)
- Contact information of 2 references
- Transcripts from MSc and BS degrees
Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered.
Further information about the group can be found on our website. Questions regarding the position should be directed to Dr. Carla Fernandez-Rico via emial (E-Mail schreiben).
The earliest start of this position is November 1, 2024 and the latest February 1, 2025.
About ETH Zürich
Curious? So are we.
We look forward to receiving your online application with the following documents:
- CV
- A short motivation letter describing how your background fits the profile, your scientific interests and scientific achievements to date (max. 1 page)
- Contact information of 2 references
- Transcripts from MSc and BS degrees
Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered.
Further information about the group can be found on our website. Questions regarding the position should be directed to Dr. Carla Fernandez-Rico via emial (E-Mail schreiben).
The earliest start of this position is November 1, 2024 and the latest February 1, 2025.