PhD Candidate in Computational Earthquake Rupture Mechanics / PhD Candidate in Computational Earthquake Rupture Mechanics

PhD Position: Computational Earthquake Rupture Mechanics

100% - Zurich, Fixed-term

At the Professorship of Solid Mechanics (SMEC) in the Institute for Building Materials at ETH Zurich, we strive to understand the mechanisms of material deformation, degradation, and failure. Our research is motivated by a deep curiosity about the physical principles governing failure and aims to translate this knowledge into more reliable and resilient materials and structures. By integrating numerical modeling, laboratory experiments, and theoretical analyses, we link microscopic processes with the macroscopic behavior of engineering and natural systems, ultimately developing predictive tools for mechanical failure.

Our team is highly interdisciplinary and international, comprising researchers with backgrounds in materials science, mechanics, and applied physics. We explore a wide array of topics, including the mechanics of particle systems, architected materials, collagen fragility, earthquake mechanics, and failure modeling in multiphysical processes such as corrosion-driven concrete degradation. What unites our diverse efforts is a shared commitment to understanding why complex materials fail and developing innovative concepts, experiments, and models that deepen our insight into failure mechanics.

We are seeking a motivated and innovative PhD student with a background in computational mechanics to engage in a project focusing on computational earthquake rupture mechanics. This project will involve numerical method development and theoretical analysis to investigate how heterogeneous stress states and nonlinear near-fault processes influence earthquake rupture dynamics, arrest, and size statistics.

Job Description

• Conduct computational and theoretical investigations of dynamic earthquake ruptures, focusing on propagation, arrest, and energy dissipation in heterogeneous fault systems.
• Connect fracture-mechanics theory with large-scale numerical simulations of earthquake ruptures.
• Develop, enhance, and utilize high-performance simulation tools for dynamic rupture, including GPU-oriented numerical methods.
• Verify and validate numerical methods against benchmark problems and established theoretical results.
• Investigate the influence of heterogeneous stress states and nonlinear dissipative processes, such as off-fault plasticity, on rupture arrest and earthquake size statistics.
• Enjoy a stimulating environment conducive to scientific growth and collaboration.

Profile

• You hold an MSc degree in mechanics, physics, engineering, earth science, material science, computational science, or a related discipline.
• You have a background in computational mechanics, solid mechanics, applied physics, scientific computing, or a related field.
• You have experience implementing scientific code and validating it against analytical solutions, numerical benchmarks, or well-documented reference results.
• Prior programming experience in Python and familiarity with version control is essential. Experience with high-performance computing, GPU programming, C/C++, or numerical methods for wave propagation, fracture, or solid mechanics is advantageous.
• You are curious, self-motivated, and enjoy developing numerical methods to answer mechanical questions.
• You are fluent in English, both spoken and written.
• You thrive in a team-oriented environment, possess excellent social and communication skills, and actively contribute to a positive atmosphere.

Workplace

Join a dynamic, international, and collaborative research group that values curiosity, rigor, and teamwork at ETH Zurich—a university that not only supports your professional development but also significantly contributes to societal improvement.

We Offer

• You will be part of a vibrant research community that values collaboration and innovation.
• Enjoy substantial workplace benefits like public transport season tickets, car-sharing options, a broad range of sports activities, childcare services, and competitive pension plans.
• We are committed to sustainability and aspire to create a climate-neutral university.

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

ETH Zurich promotes an inclusive culture that supports equality of opportunity and values diversity. We strive to maintain a respectful environment where every individual can grow and flourish. Our commitment to sustainability remains a core value as we consistently work towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We!

The position is available with a flexible start date, potentially as soon as possible.

Apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

For further information about the professorship, please visit our website. For inquiries regarding the position, please contact Prof. David Kammer at dkammer@ethz.ch (no applications).

About ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich is a leading global university specializing in science and technology. We are renowned for our exceptional education, pioneering research, and direct contributions to societal advancement. With over 30,000 members from more than 120 nations, our university fosters independent thinking and inspires excellence. Situated in the heart of Europe, we connect worldwide to tackle today's and tomorrow's global challenges.