PhD in Nonlinear Vibrational Metamaterials

About the role

Empa, a research institution of the ETH Domain, offers a fully funded 4-year PhD position in nonlinear vibrational metamaterials. The project explores nonlinear resonators whose dynamic behaviour changes with vibration amplitude, combining mechanical modelling, finite-element simulations, prototype development and experimental testing. It is part of a collaborative Swiss-French project involving Empa, ETH Zurich and LAUM, with the candidate enrolled as a PhD student at ETH Zurich under the supervision of Dr. Paolo Tiso.

Key responsibilities

• Develop analytical and numerical models for strongly nonlinear resonators with nonlinear stiffness, damping and inertia effects.
• Design, simulate and optimise resonator concepts based on inertia amplification, bilinear stiffness and multi-degree-of-freedom dynamics.
• Manufacture and characterise resonator prototypes using vibration testing, laser vibrometry and modal analysis.
• Investigate nonlinear phenomena such as internal resonances, frequency conversion, bifurcations and nonlinear energy transfer.
• Create reduced-order models and efficient simulation tools for nonlinear metamaterials and wave-control devices.
• Publish results in leading journals, present at international conferences and collaborate with project partners at ETH Zurich and the Université du Mans.

Required profile

• MSc in engineering, physics or mathematics obtained within the last four years, with above-average performance.
• Proficiency in written and spoken English.
• Experience with structural and/or nonlinear dynamics, numerical modelling (e.g. finite element method) or experimental acoustics methods.
• Structured, independent research approach and regular reporting to supervisors.
• Team player who wants to become more independent during the PhD.

What we offer

• Fully funded 4-year PhD position.
• Enrolment as a PhD student at ETH Zurich with co-supervision by Dr. Paolo Tiso.
• Core work at Empa with at least one research secondment in Le Mans.
• Doctoral training through the Doctoral School.
• Start in February 2027 or upon mutual agreement.

Applications must be submitted online through the employer's job portal with a letter of motivation, CV, certificates, diplomas and two references; applications by e-mail or post are not accepted.