The Engineering Geology Group (Prof. Dr Jordan Aaron, Geological Institute) is looking for a creative and motivated PhD candidate with a strong interest in rock mechanics and laboratory analysis. The position is expected to start in January 2025 and is fully funded for 4 years.

Catastrophic rock slope failure and subsequent runout is an important hazard in many alpine regions.  It is a complex process that is partly controlled by the interaction between discontinuities and intact rock.  There is an urgent need for improved process understanding of rock slope failure, as increased development pressures are changing the risk posed by rock slopes  around the world.  The present project leverages the unique expertise and facilities available in The Chair of Engineering Geology at ETH Zurich to improve our understanding of these processes.

In this project, you will use the state-of-the-art laboratory and numerical modelling infrastructure available to the Chair of Engineering Geology to develop, test and apply a new methodology to investigate the behaviour of jointed rock. This will combine state-of-the-art mechanical tests with recent developments in additive manufacturing.  You will then use numerical modelling to develop, validate and test the newly developed methodology. Finally, you will perform scaled experiments of engineering geology systems to make fundamental insights into processes such as rock slope failure and rock fracture propagation in jointed rock. 

• MSc. in Engineering Geology, Earth Sciences, Geological Engineering, Geophysics or related fields
• Strong background in rock mechanics
• Experience in rock mechanical laboratory testing
• Interest in numerical modelling
• Motivation, creativity, independence, and ability to work in a team
• Excellent English communication skills

We are an enthusiastic and collaborative research group with many opportunities for multi-disciplinary cutting-edge research in engineering geology. There are significant opportunities to broaden your research interests and develop your academic career. We further offer training in teaching through teaching assistantships, as well as access to state-of-the-art laboratories and research equipment.

In line with our values, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to find out how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish.

We look forward to receiving your online application with the following documents:

• A brief cover letter summarizing your motivation to apply for the position.
• Your CV
• Transcripts
• The contact details of two references

Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered.

Further information about the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences our website. Questions regarding the position should be directed to Prof. Jordan Aaron, Email: jordan.aaron@eaps.ethz.ch (no applications).  The application deadline for this position is October 31st, 2024.

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specialising in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, yet forging connections all over the world, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.