Tenure‑Track Group Leader – Metal Additive Manufacturing

About the role

Empa is seeking an outstanding early‑career researcher to lead a new research group in metal additive manufacturing at its Thun site. The successful candidate will define an innovative research agenda that spans alloy design, powder development, process monitoring, and material characterization.

Key responsibilities

• Establish a strong research profile in metal additive manufacturing within the laboratory’s broader activities.
• Acquire and manage competitive research funding from national, international, and industrial sources.
• Develop and maintain collaborations with academic and industrial partners in Switzerland and abroad.
• Lead research projects and supervise PhD, post‑doctoral, and MSc students.
• Publish high‑quality research in leading international journals and present at major conferences.
• Contribute to the strategic development and long‑term growth of the laboratory.
• Promote technology transfer and strengthen industry collaborations.

Required profile

• PhD in Materials Science, Metallurgy, Mechanical Engineering, Applied Physics or a related field.
• Demonstrated expertise in metal additive manufacturing (LPBF, DED, BJ, etc.).
• Excellent publication record relative to career stage.
• Strong potential to acquire competitive research funding and develop an independent research profile.
• Ability to work across disciplines and bridge fundamental research with industrial applications.
• Experience in research project management and supervision of junior researchers.
• Excellent communication, networking and leadership skills.
• Fluent English; German and/or French knowledge is an advantage.

Required skills

• Metal additive manufacturing techniques (LPBF, DED, BJ).
• Materials development and powder engineering.
• Process development, monitoring and modelling/simulation.
• Materials characterization.

What we offer

• State‑of‑the‑art research infrastructure and substantial freedom to develop an independent program.
• Tenure‑track appointment with an initial three‑year contract and the possibility of a permanent position after successful evaluation.
• A culture of inclusion, respect and support for innovative, sustainable research.