Research Associate in Mechanics for Modelling 60 – 100 %

Research Associate in Mechanics for Modelling 60 – 100 %

Are you interested in simulations and experimental work? Then the «Mechanics for Modelling» team is looking for you!

Department: School of Engineering

Start date: September 1, 2025, or by arrangement. The position is initially limited to 1 year, with the option of extension.

• Participation in application-oriented research and development projects in the focus area «Mechanics for Modelling»
• Independent management of the laboratory for thermomechanical characterization of polymer materials and metals (including mechanical testing, determination of thermal expansion and conductivity)
• Development of testing systems including conducting experimental tests for calibration and validation of simulations
• Creation and evaluation of nonlinear finite element (FEM) simulations, e.g., for simulating highly stressed components (including polymers) or complex manufacturing processes (additive manufacturing, friction stir welding)

You have a university degree (ETH/FH) in mechanical engineering, computational sciences, materials science, or a related field. In addition, you have initial experience with experimental work and simulations (Abaqus, Ansys) as well as programming (Matlab, Python). We are looking for a flexible, independent, and team-oriented person with enthusiasm for mechanics, modeling, and interdisciplinary applied research and development. You enjoy developing solutions for challenging problems, are proactive, committed, and reliable. We offer you a pleasant working environment with a collegial atmosphere in a dedicated team, good social benefits, and the opportunity to develop professionally and personally.

The ZHAW Zurich University of Applied Sciences, with over 14,000 students and more than 11,000 continuing education participants as well as around 3,700 employees, is one of the largest multi-disciplinary universities of applied sciences in Switzerland.

At the Institute of Mechanical Systems (IMES), we deal with questions from the mechanical engineering environment. The focus is on three main areas: Biomechanical Engineering, Light Weight Design, and Mechanics for Modelling.

The focus area «Mechanics for Modelling» concentrates on analytical, numerical, and experimental methods for the mechanical modeling of materials, systems, and processes. We use detailed simulations, realistic experiments, and data-based methods to answer mechanical questions within the framework of industrial digitalization. Our core competencies lie in material modeling, nonlinear FEM simulation, and experimental mechanics.

ZHAW is committed to gender-mixed and diverse teams to promote equality, diversity, and innovation. To increase the proportion of women in leadership positions, applications from women are particularly welcome.

We offer university-appropriate working and employment conditions and actively promote the personnel development of our employees and managers. A detailed description of the benefits can be found on the "Working at ZHAW" website. Here are the key points:

Prof. Dr. Thomas Mayer

Head of Mechanics for Modelling

Yeliz Sevinc

Recruiting Manager