PhD in Dynamic Covalent Hydrogels & Macromolecular Design

Eidgenössische Technische Hochschule Zürich; Zürich; On-site; CHF 42,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

ETH Zurich in Zurich invites applications for a doctoral position to study molecular features that govern the mechanics of dynamic covalent hydrogels. The Macromolecular Engineering Laboratory within the Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering leads this interdisciplinary project.

The successful candidate will synthesize model DCHs, characterize binding thermodynamics and reaction kinetics using ITC, NMR, and UV–Vis, and relate these to rheological properties.

Qualifications

• Applicants must hold a MSc degree in chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, chemistry, materials science, physics, polymer science, or related fields.
• Fluent English communication is required.
• Working knowledge of organic synthesis and polymer chemistry is required.
• Experience in rheological characterization, calorimetric or spectroscopic analysis (ITC, NMR, UV–vis), design of polymer networks, or computational modeling is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Carry out synthesis and characterization of model dynamic covalent hydrogels across chemistries and networks.
• Quantify binding thermodynamics, kinetics, and network mechanics using ITC, NMR, UV–Vis, and rheometry.
• Develop theoretical and computational frameworks with collaborators to capture network effects.
• Engage in lab duties and contribute to teaching within the group.

Skills

English fluency

Organic synthesis

Polymer chemistry

Rheology

Calorimetry

NMR spectroscopy

UV-Vis spectroscopy

Polymer networks design

Computational modeling

Education

MSc degree in chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, chemistry, materials science, physics, polymer science, or related fields

Job description

ETH Zurich in Zurich invites applications for a doctoral position to study molecular features that govern the mechanics of dynamic covalent hydrogels. The Macromolecular Engineering Laboratory within the Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering leads this interdisciplinary project.

The successful candidate will synthesize model DCHs, characterize binding thermodynamics and reaction kinetics using ITC, NMR, and UV–Vis, and relate these to rheological properties.