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 goal of our Concrete & Asphalt Laboratory is to make cementitious and bituminous materials more sustainable and high-performing through both fundamental and applied research. Our efforts range from enhancing the durability of concrete and asphalt to promoting the smart use of resources and waste, and pioneering novel, low-carbon or even carbon-negative construction materials. We are looking for a highly motivated candidate with a strong background in asphalt research, eager to work on the future of sustainable asphalt pavements. We look for a highly motivated candidate with a strong background in asphalt and unbound material research, eager to work on the development of multi-functional pavements for blue-green infrastructure in cities.
Your tasks
You will work on projects related to the development of blue-green pavement systems, including permeable and water filtering structures, mitigation of the urban heat island effect, development and characterization of semi-bound pavement materials, including their use as carbon sinks. Structural design of these innovative pavement systems will also have to be performed. To allow thorough evaluation of the developed solutions, a full-scale pavement facility will be used. It's use and instrumentation and will be part of the tasks. The research will address the interactions between the mechanical, hydraulic, and thermal performance of innovative pavement materials and structures, with the aim of developing multi-functional pavement solutions. In addition to the technical work, you will be required to manage research projects, adhere to project plans, collaborate with research partners, engage with stakeholders, and report to project funding agencies. You will have the opportunity to contribute to international forums and apply for new research grants. You will become part of an ambitious, goal-oriented team while having a high degree of independence.
Your profile
A PhD degree in Pavement Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field, experience with material development and characterization across scales as well as strong management and communication skills, are required.
The tasks will include the development of innovative pavement materials and material systems, refinement of appropriate characterization techniques, and laboratory as well as in-field characterization. Experience with asphalt, granular materials, and permeable pavement materials is therefore relevant. Experience in mechanistic pavement structural design and modelling will be considered a benefit.
We are looking for a highly motivated team player who is curious to learn new things, is self-motivated, and has excellent English communication and scientific writing skills. Due to the necessity to communicate with stakeholders, German knowledge will be considered a strong advantage.
Our offer
The position is funded for two years; the start date is February 2027 or by mutual agreement. You will be working in a dynamic, multi-cultural environment where creative ideas, dedication, and personal initiative are rewarded. Empa offers outstanding infrastructure, a broad interdisciplinary environment and competitive salaries. We are passionate about what we do and want to make a real-world impact with our research.
We foster a culture of inclusion and respect. We welcome all people who are interested in innovative, sustainable and meaningful activities. Our commitment is documented in our
Diversity Action Plan and refers to specific goals, which are implemented and further developed on a regular basis.
You don't meet every single requirement? We are aware that particularly women and individuals from minority backgrounds often hesitate to apply unless they meet every requirement. However, we also value motivation, commitment and a willingness to learn. If you see yourself in this role, we would love to receive your qualified application, even if you don't meet 100% of the requirements.
Patricia
Nitzsche,
Stv. Leiterin Human Resources / Dep. Head Human Resources