Post-doc in Simulations of Thin Film

Post-doc in Simulations of Thin Film Growth

Materials science and technology are our passion. With our cutting‑edge research, Empa’s around 1,100 employees make essential contributions to the well‑being of society for a future worth living. Empa is a research institution of the ETH Domain.

You will work on applied research and fundamental projects funded by Inno Suisse and the Swiss National Science Foundation on simulations of precursor transport, heat distribution, nucleation, and growth of thin films in atomic layer deposition (ALD) reactors. The range of simulations focuses on finite element methods and can include Monte Carlo based simulation approaches and continuum modelling. Verification of simulation results against experimental findings will be part of your activities, and you are expected to publish your research output in high‑level peer‑reviewed scientific journals.

You must hold a PhD in Physics, Chemistry, Material Science, Computational Science, or a related field. A high level of motivation to work in close collaboration with industry, experimentalists, and an international, multidisciplinary research team is essential. Experience in ALD and simulation techniques is desirable. Knowledge of English (oral and written) is required; knowledge of German or French is an advantage.

The Laboratory for Mechanics of Materials and Nanostructures of Empa in Thun offers an ideal working environment with state‑of‑the‑art equipment (clean rooms, high‑level materials analysis facilities, ALD/MLD/PVD infrastructure, and computing resources). The city is situated in a beautiful area near the mountains in the German‑speaking part of Switzerland.

Applicants are invited for a 1‑year appointment (extendable up to 5 years) starting from August 2026 or on mutual agreement.

We live a culture of inclusion and respect. We welcome all people who are interested in innovative, sustainable, and meaningful activities – that’s what counts.