PostDoc on sustainable asphalt pavements

Publication date:08 October 2025
Workload:100%
Contract type:Unlimited employment
Language:English (Fluent)
Place of work:Ueberlandstrasse 129, 8600 Dübendorf

About the job

PostDoc on sustainable asphalt pavements

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.

Your tasks

You will work on projects related to the future of sustainable asphalt pavements, including conceptualizing, designing, producing laboratory mixtures, testing, and supporting the implementation of innovative pavements in full scale. 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 the project funding agencies. You will have the opportunity to contribute to international forums and apply for new research grants. You will become a part of an ambitious, goal-oriented team while having a high degree of independence.

Your profile

A PhD degree in Civil Engineering, Materials Science, Chemistry, or a related field, as well as strong management and communication skills are required. The tasks will require a high degree of innovativeness, command of multi-scale asphalt and binder testing methods, as well as knowledge of the pavement design concepts. Experience in material modeling and programming will be considered and advantage. We are looking for a highly motivated team player that is curious to learn new things, is self-motivated, and has excellent English communication and writing skills. Knowledge of German language will be considered an advantage.

Our offer

Empa is the research institute for materials science and technology of the ETH Domain and conducts cutting-edge research. 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. Empa is proud to be an equal opportunity employer, committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. The position is available for two years with potential for prolongation.

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.

We look forward to receiving your complete online application including a letter of motivation, CV, certificates, diplomas and contact details of two reference persons. Please submit these exclusively via our job portal. Applications by e-mail and by post will not be considered.

Patricia Nitzsche,
Stv. Leiterin Human Resources / Dep. Head Human Resources