PhD in physical chemistry of building materials

The Chair for Physical Chemistry of Building Materials has an opening for a Ph.D. position on the use of Focused Ion Beam (FIB) engineered micro-reactors to study cement hydration. The project is a continuation of a novel method pioneered at ETH to study the hydration of cementitious materials. It involves using a FIB to carve a micron-sized gap in a cement grain, filling it with water and following hydration with advanced electron microscope techniques. An important focus will be placed on 3D FIB nano-tomography.

The successful candidate should most preferably hold a Masters degree in material science. However candidates with specific outstanding experience in cement hydration and electron microscopy may also be considered with Masters in geochemistry, chemistry, chemical engineering, physics or civil engineering. He/she should preferably have proven expertise in electron microscopy. He/she should also have a keen interest in physical chemistry and its application to construction materials. An excellent oral and written level in English is necessary. Conversational knowledge of German is an advantage, but desire to learn it is a must.