PhD in Life-Like Polymers That Learn for Soft Robotics

Empa; Sankt Gallen; Vor Ort; CHF 47.000 - 60.000; Vollzeit

Zusammenfassung

Empa in St.Gallen is offering a PhD project focused on designing and characterizing mechanically robust polyurethane elastomers with backbone-integrated molecular switches. The role combines organic/polymer synthesis with advanced materials characterization modalities.

The candidate will explore memory-like behaviors, develop training-recall-forgetting cycles on soft polymer films and bilayer actuators, and contribute to autonomous soft robotics collaboration within the team.

Qualifikationen

• Master's degree in a relevant field is required.
• Strong motivation to work at the interface of synthesis, materials science and soft robotics.
• Excellent written and spoken English are essential.

Aufgaben

• Synthesize and characterize polyurethane elastomers with backbone-integrated switches.
• Validate backbone integration by NMR, GPC, DSC, DMA, tensile testing, UV-Vis spectroscopy.
• Investigate memory and learning behaviors in polymer networks.
• Develop logic maps for memory formation, consolidation and forgetting in films and actuators.
• Collaborate with international partners and publish results.

Kenntnisse

Polymer chemistry

Organic chemistry

Materials science

English proficiency

Ausbildung

Master's degree

Tools

NMR

GPC

DSC

DMA

UV-Vis

FTIR

Jobbeschreibung

Empa in St.Gallen is offering a PhD project focused on designing and characterizing mechanically robust polyurethane elastomers with backbone-integrated molecular switches. The role combines organic/polymer synthesis with advanced materials characterization modalities.

The candidate will explore memory-like behaviors, develop training-recall-forgetting cycles on soft polymer films and bilayer actuators, and contribute to autonomous soft robotics collaboration within the team.