PhD in hydrogel acoustic metamaterials

EPFL seeks a PhD candidate to research hydrogel acoustic metamaterials within the Laboratory for Bio-Iontronics in Lausanne. The role involves independent dissertation work, experimental design, and international collaboration.

This position is based in the Laboratory for Bio-Iontronics (BION) at EPFL, an environment dedicated to creating bioiontronic systems for biointerfaces and hybrid intelligent technologies. The successful candidate will lead a four-year doctoral project centered on the creation and study of hydrogel-based acoustic metamaterials, contributing to the lab's broader goals in droplet-based iontronic systems.

Responsibilities

• Manage and drive the entire doctoral dissertation process independently.
• Design, build, and run experiments to test hydrogel acoustic properties.
• Process and interpret data generated from experimental trials.
• Collaborate with internal lab colleagues and external international partners.
• Draft and submit research papers for peer-reviewed scientific journals.
• Share research outcomes at global academic conferences.
• Mentor student projects and assist with routine laboratory administrative tasks.

Requirements

• Hold an MSc degree in materials science, microengineering, or bioengineering.
• Demonstrate proven experience in polymer characterization techniques.
• Show practical background in ultrasonic testing or applications.
• Have authored more than one peer-reviewed publication.
• Exhibit strong hands-on experimental abilities and a practical approach to problem-solving.
• Display high motivation for interdisciplinary academic research.
• Communicate fluently in English.

Nice to have

• Previous exposure to cleanroom manufacturing processes.
• Experience with 3D printing technologies.
• Ability to speak French.
• Active participation in sports.
• Traits such as independence, creativity, solution-orientation, and strong teamwork skills.

What the company offers

• A four-year contract to complete the PhD degree.
• A competitive salary package.
• Access to advanced experimental facilities and a dynamic scientific community.
• Support for international collaborations and visiting scholar opportunities.
• Engagement with a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem.

About the company

The Laboratory for Bio-Iontronics (BION) at EPFL focuses on advancing droplet-based iontronic systems, known as dropletronics. The lab’s research aims to integrate functions such as embodied energy, logic control, stimulus responsiveness, and therapeutic delivery into these systems, fostering innovation at the intersection of biology and electronics.

• Focus on developing droplet-based iontronic systems with advanced functional capabilities.
• Integration of logic control and stimulus-responsive materials in research.
• Emphasis on therapeutic delivery applications within bioiontronic technologies.
• Collaborative environment with international research partnerships.
• Access to state-of-the-art experimental infrastructure.

How to apply

Documents to submit:

• Motivation Letter
• Detailed CV
• References

Application language: English