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.
The
Structural Engineering Laboratory pioneers innovative solutions aimed at reducing material consumption, increasing material reuse, mitigating greenhouse gas emissions, and preparing the built environment for extreme events. In the lab, research on advanced structural materials and systems, condition assessment and strengthening techniques, in digital fabrication, and in timber engineering is performed to enhance the safety, serviceability, durability, robustness, and sustainability of structures. The lab boasts an excellent infrastructure for experimental research, holds ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation for static and fatigue tests, and is equipped with a unique laboratory hall for large-scale testing.
This position is becoming available due to the retirement of the current laboratory head.
Your tasks
As an inspiring and visionary research leader, you will be responsible for the strategic and operational management of the laboratory. Your main tasks will include:
- Defining and implementing the strategic direction of this highly interdisciplinary laboratory to address key scientific and societal challenges.
- Securing fundamental research funding (e.g., from the SNSF or the EU) and applied research projects supported by Innosuisse, federal agencies, and industrial partners.
- Leading and mentoring a diverse team of approximately 30–35 employees, including scientists, group leaders, PhD students, postdoctoral researchers, and technical staff.
- Expanding and cultivating a strong national and international network with academic and industry partners, and actively representing the laboratory at scientific events and in professional committees.
- Promoting knowledge transfer through university-level teaching, high-impact publications, and engagement with industry.
Your profile
You are a collaborative and forward-thinking leader with a passion for excellence in research and development. Your qualifications include:
- A doctoral degree (PhD) in Civil / Structural or Mechanical Engineering or in a closely related field.
- An outstanding research track record and strong expertise in one or more of the laboratory's core areas, such as advanced structural materials, structural health monitoring, strengthening techniques (such as shape memory alloys), or sustainable composite structures (including, e.g., FRP composites, earth/wood composites), structural optimization and design of structures for disassembly and reuse.
- Proven experience in successfully acquiring competitive third-party funding and in leading and mentoring research teams.
- A well-established professional network in academia and/or industry and excellent communication and presentation skills.
- You are a team-oriented leader with high ethical standards and the ability to inspire and motivate colleagues. You approach challenges in an organized and decisive manner, with a strong sense of re-sponsibility.
- The laboratory head is expected to actively support diversity and gender balance by creating an inclusive environment and mentoring emerging talents.
- Excellent proficiency in English is required. A good command of German is a significant advantage, with the expectation of becoming fluent for effective collaboration with our local industry partners.
Our offer
We offer a challenging and supportive leadership role within a world-class, interdisciplinary research environment with state-of-the-art facilities and flexible working conditions. You will have the opportunity to perform high-level research that directly supports industry and policymaking.
We look forward to receiving your complete online application, including a letter of motivation, CV, list of publications, diplomas, a statement of your research interests and vision for the laboratory, and the contact details of at least two professional references by January 31st, 2026, at the latest. Please submit your application exclusively via our job portal. Applications by e-mail and by post will not be considered.
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.
André
Schmid,
Leiter Personal / Head Human Resources