Doctoral Position in Mechanics of Frictional Particle Suspensions

The Professorship of Solid Mechanics at ETH Zurich invites applications for a doctoral position focused on the mechanics of frictional particle suspensions. The successful candidate will conduct computational and theoretical investigations to link particle-scale friction with macroscopic rheological flow responses. Working within an interdisciplinary and international research team, the student will employ particle-based simulation methods, such as coarse-grained molecular dynamics, and collaborate closely with experimental partners. The project offers a stimulating environment for scientific growth aimed at developing predictive tools for complex material failure.

• Conduct computational and theoretical investigations into how particle-scale friction governs the macroscopic flow response of concentrated suspensions.
• Connect particle-scale mechanics, geometry, and frictional interactions with collective suspension behavior using physics-based models.
• Implement and execute particle-based simulation methods, including coarse-grained molecular dynamics.
• Perform rigorous verification and validation of computational results using reference datasets provided by collaborators.
• Analyze simulation findings to uncover the physical mechanisms controlling suspension dynamics and assist in interpreting experimental observations.