PhD in hydrogel acoustic metamaterials

Job description

For the 1 PhD position starting between 2026 fall and 2027 spring, we are seeking a candidate with experience in microfluidics, microfabrication, stimulus-responsive hydrogels, ultrasonics and acoustic metamaterials (acoustic crystals). The candidate should be interested in emerging, interdisciplinary fields and be motivated to address new challenges, including the development of hydrogel acoustic metamaterials.

Group leader and Research mission: Prof. Yujia Zhang

At the Laboratory for Bio-Iontronics (BION), our mission is to make bioiontronic systems for biointerfaces and hybrid intelligent systems. To that end, we are interested in developing droplet-based iontronic systems, termed dropletronics, with key functions of embodied energy, logic control, stimulus responsiveness, and therapeutic delivery, enabling interactive communication with biology.

Profile

• • MSc in materials science, microengineering, or bioengineering;
  • Experience with polymer characterisation and ultrasonics is required;
  • More than 1 peer-reviewed publication;
  • Prior experience in cleanroom manufacturing and 3D printing is a plus;
  • Strong experimental skills and a practical and hands-on mindset;
  • High level of motivation for interdisciplinary academic research;
  • Independent, self-driven, creative, solution-oriented, open-minded, team-player, and collaborative;
  • Fluency in English (French is a plus);
  • Enthusiasm in sports is a plus.

Main duties and responsibilities

 As a PhD Student, you will be expected to:

• • Have full responsibility for your own dissertation;
  • Research in close collaboration with other lab members and international collaborators;
  • Experiment design and execution;
  • Analyse and interpret experimental results;
  • Write scientific articles for publication in peer-reviewed journals;
  • Present at international conferences;
  • Supervise student projects and basic administrative support;

We offer

• • 4 years to complete your PhD with a competitive remuneration;
  • International collaboration and visiting opportunities;
  • EPFL is an international and world-class engineering institution that hosts state-of-the-art experimental facilities and a rich and vibrant scientific and entrepreneurial community.
  • Term of employment: 1-year fixed-term contract (CDD), renewable for 4 years.

Information

The selection process involves multiple stages, and short-listed candidates will be requested to apply to a specific EPFL Doctoral Program to qualify for a PhD at EPFL. Please check this page for additional information on admission. Potential doctoral programs for this position: EDMX, EDMI, or EDBB.

Please note that this is a separate application process necessary to be eligible to complete your PhD at EPFL.

Only applications submitted through the online platform are considered. Please apply by uploading a single PDF file that contains supporting information, including:

• • Motivation Letter
  • Detailed CV
  • At least 2 references willing to write recommendation letters and their contact information
  • Application deadline: 25 September 2026

Contract Start Date: Between 2026 fall and 2027 spring

Activity Rate : 100%

Contract Type: PhD Student

Duration: 1 year, renewable for 4 years

Reference: 2350