Ph.D. Position in Organic Chemistry, Polymer Chemistry, and/or Sol–Gel Chemistry & Materials Science
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Switzerland
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Empa
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On Campus (Full Time)
See Position Description-
PhD Research Funding
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Unspecified
On Campus (Full Time) Position Details (PhD Research Project)
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 Laboratory for Building Energy Materials and Components develops advanced and/or low eco-impact, porous materials for insulation, sorption, and energy-related applications. Our research portfolio spans fundamental materials chemistry, process–structure–property relationships, and application-driven R&D, in close collaboration with academic and industrial partners.
To strengthen our team, we are seeking a highly motivated Ph.D. candidate with a strong background in organic and/or polymer chemistry and an interest in porous polymer materials. While the position is primarily intended for a Ph.D. student, outstanding postdoctoral applicants with an exceptional fit to the project scope may also be considered.
Research Focus
The project builds on Empa’s extensive experience in polyimide aerogels and related porous polymer systems, which have already demonstrated strong application potential. The central goal of this Ph.D. project is to move beyond established synthesis routes toward a deeper, chemistry-driven understanding of structure formation in porous polymers.
Key scientific objectives include:
- Elucidating how monomer structure, solvent choice, and oligomer formation govern polymerization pathways, phase behavior, and network evolution
- Understanding polymer–solvent interactions, aggregation mechanisms, and gelation kinetics in polyimide and related systems
- Designing and synthesizing new monomers, modified backbones, or grafted polymer architectures to deliberately tailor hierarchical pore structures
- Establishing clear structure–property relationships that link molecular design to macroscopic performance in porous polymer aerogels The project is fundamental in nature but is embedded in an industry-sponsored framework that provides clear relevance, resources, and pathways toward innovation.
Ph.D. Position in Organic Chemistry, Polymer Chemistry, and/or Sol–Gel Chemistry & Materials Science
Your role
Supported by your supervisors, you will take a leading role in shaping and executing the research project. You will be encouraged to develop independent scientific ideas, propose new concepts, and test them experimentally.
Your responsibilities will include:
- Designing and executing synthesis strategies and systematic parameter studies
- Investigating polymerization mechanisms, solvent effects, and structure formation processes
- Applying and interpreting advanced materials characterization techniques
- Coordinating project activities and interacting with academic and industrial partners
- Supervising intern students or student researchers contributing to the project
- Hosting visiting researchers from partner organizations
- Compiling, analyzing, and critically interpreting experimental data
- Contributing to patent applications with support from the team
- Leading scientific publications and presenting results at international conferences
- Occasional travel to the industry partner in Asia for information exchange
- Conducting doctoral coursework at a Swiss university
- Successfully completing the Ph.D. mid-term evaluation and doctoral defense
Your profile
- A high level of scientific curiosity, independence, and motivation
- Master’s degree in organic chemistry, polymer chemistry, sol–gel chemistry, materials science, or a closely related field. (Ph.D. degree with equivalent experience for postdoctoral applicants)
- Strong interest in polymer chemistry fundamentals and structure-controlled materials design
- Experience with organic synthesis and/or polymer–solvent interactions, gelation, or porous materials is a strong advantage
- Familiarity with porous materials characterization techniques is beneficial, but not required, e.g. nitrogen sorption (BET, BJH, NLDFT), SEM, TEM, TGA, FTIR, NMR, thermal conductivity measurements
- Basic knowledge of molecular simulation or modelling (e.g., molecular dynamics, coarse-grained modelling, or structure–property simulations) is advantageous
- Excellent written and oral communication skills in English
Our offer
We offer a stimulating, international, and collaborative research environment at a leading research institution with state-of-the-art infrastructure. You will work at the interface of fundamental chemistry and materials engineering, with substantial freedom to develop your own ideas.
Empa is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace where different perspectives are valued. The laboratory and supervisors provide a supportive and safe-to-fail work environment. As part of the ETH Domain, we offer attractive employment conditions and excellent opportunities for professional and personal development.
Start date is May 2026 or upon agreement for a duration of 3 years.Exceptionally strong Postdoctoral candidates may also be considered; 60–100%, 2 years.
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.