PostDoc Position in the Field of Hybrid 3D Printing Process for SiC-based Metamaterials

PostDoc Position in the Field of Hybrid 3D Printing Process for SiC-based Metamaterials

Empa - Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology

Dübendorf, Switzerland

For an applied research project, we are seeking a highly motivated Postdoc interested in the development of a hybrid AM manufacturing process for silicon carbide ceramics. This project is a close collaboration between the Smart Materials Processing and Architectured Materials groups of the laboratory and focuses on the design, fabrication and characterization of 3D-printed SiC-based ceramic metamaterials. We will develop SiC-based thermoplastic feedstocks, a hybrid manufacturing process combining FDM 3D printing and milling, design metamaterials with unique properties, and analyze their microstructural, mechanical, and thermal properties after sintering.

Your tasks

• Exploring commercial SiC ceramic powder and sintering additives
• Development of SiC thermoplastic feedstocks for FDM printing
• Programming of an existing hybrid FDM printing machine, including printing and milling devices
• Modelling and optimization of the debinding process
• Simulation-based design of mechanical metamaterials to achieve high specific stiffness and strength, energy dissipation, and damage resistance
• Morphological, microstructural, and mechanical characterization of the 3D printed metamaterials

Your profile

You have a PhD in mechanical engineering, ceramics or a similar field. Previous experience with one or more of the following topics is required: Processing of SiC-based ceramics, sintering of SiC-based ceramics, microstructural and mechanical characterization, programming of machines, modeling and simulation with Ansys, Abaqus, Comsol or similar software. The experimental nature of the work requires a very high level of experimental skills. You need to program the hybrid printer and possibly modify the device to be able achieve more freedom in printing and milling of the 3D printed SiC-based structures. You are a team player and your strengths include taking personal responsibility, excellence and flexibility to work and deliver results. The candidate should have excellent written and oral communication skills in English. Knowledge of German is beneficial, but not mandatory.